02.03
Perhaps I saved a life today.
I donated blood.
I have B positive blood, and it’s easy for me to donate. The act of donating causes me no pain, and I end up getting a minor health check as a bonus – my blood pressure, temperature and pulse rate are taken as well as my red blood count. It takes less than an hour total, more like 30 minutes plus.
Big bonus: my blood might save someone’s life.
I passed all the tests, and got in and out in under 40 minutes. I even got to kick back and watch some television with my feet up! I also had a nice conversation on photography with the phlebotomist who attended me throughout.
I have only 3 more donations to accomplish and I’ll have given 11 gallons of blood and platelets. I’ve been doing this for well over 20 years. I can’t recall when I started, it’s been so long ago. I’d be closer to 14 gallons if I hadn’t had to stop for several years while taking a drug which was on the banned list. Thankfully, I don’t take that prescription anymore and can resume giving.
Because I got out of the habit of regular donation, it’s been tough to get back into the groove. During this trip today, I made an advance appointment for next time – 56 days from today. I’ll put it on my calendar at work and home, to help me remember.
I know people who have benefited by receiving donated blood, platelets and blood products. That’s made it very personal for me. Not that my blood has gone to them, the donor is never connected to the one receiving the donation due to very strict privacy laws. Because I know folks who have had their health restored in no small part due to a blood donation, I feel such satisfaction, every time I give. Not everyone can give. I know that it’s likely that some day, I won’t be able to donate for one reason or another. The folks at the blood center are very helpful in determining if you can or cannot donate. Quick and painless.
I made a difference in someone’s life today.
If you’re in Central Illinois, the Central Illinois Community Blood Center is a great way to help.
Who knows? You or someone you love dearly may need someone’s blood someday.
I like the slogan here: Give what’s in your heart.
Thanks for the reminder. I have a not-so-small fear of needles, but I’ve always wondered if I could be a donor. You’ve inspired me to at least go out and try.
I started giving blood a few years ago when I was a senior in high school, at a blood drive in our gym. To be honest, I only did it to get out of class for a little while, but when I thought about it I realized there was no reason NOT to do it! I’ve been giving regularly since then, including a double red blood cell unit this past December. It’s takes the same amount of time if not even quicker, goes to twice as many patients, and you give every 16 weeks instead of 8. Something worth doing if it is offered at your blood drive!