Party of Five

A few days ago my son brought home a flyer for an event this weekend. It wasn’t the usual type of event you would be expecting a fourth grader to be bringing home as it was an announcement of a blood drive. As I read it over I learned that it was for a mother of one of my son’s friends. I didn’t know the details just that this woman, likely around my age, is suffering from cancer. I was shocked. I realize that cancer doesn’t discriminate and that it can happen to anyone of any age, but this seemed so close to home for me. Each time I thought of her situation it made me sad even though I have never met her. So today I went over and decided I would give blood for the first time. I’ll admit I was a bit nervous, but I must say it was one of the simplest things I have ever done that could help someone else out.
 

Here is a quick run through of the process if you have never done it. First you’ll fill out a form with general information and disclosures, and answer a simple set of questions to determine if you are eligible to donate (mostly if you don’t live a high risk party life you’re in). Then you are escorted to a cozy bed where you lie down and offer up your vein. A prick and a few minutes later you are done. No kidding. I was told I have a good vein, but 10 minutes was it. I never even saw the needle or the blood in case you are the squeamish type and thought that part might scare you off. I was then directed to a seat where I had to sit for 15 minutes before leaving but was offered an unbelievable assortment of snacks, juices, water, etc.
 

My hope in telling this story is that by eliminating any frightening misconceptions of the process you may take the time out of your schedule and head over to a donation center. One of the nurses informed me that there is a constant shortage. Best yet if you are just doing it without a person in mind to donate to, you can earn credits. These credits can be saved for yourself should you ever need them, or can be donated down the road if a loved one needs them. You can only give blood every 8 weeks, but it is my intention to start going regularly.

Tags: blood drive, donation,