I saved three people's lives today by donating blood. Rather than feel proud and excited about it. I actually feel ashamed. Why have I waited so long to donate blood to help save the lives of others?
There wan an extensive questionnaire that needed to be completed. While filling in my responses, I thought, I am a healthy person, why haven't I come here before to give my blood to people who need it?
The process was very smooth. Complete a questionnaire, have an interview with a nurse, have your finger pricked and then the needle was in. It was fascinating for me to see my blood flow out of me, into a tube and then into a bag. I gave 500ml, half a litre of blood and felt absolutely fine. Apparently I have fantastic veins, as the blood flowed out in 5 minutes. The nurse said it usually takes up to 10 minutes. She was probably just making me feel better.
They put a big bandage over the needle prick and escorted me to the cafeteria for a refreshment.
I learnt today that you can also give just a plasma donation or a platelet donation, but the nurse recommended that I give whole blood donations the first few times.
I will be going again to donate blood as soon as I can. They estimate in about 12 weeks time. I have even encouraged my mum to donate blood and she will be coming with me next time.
Many of my own family members and friends have relied on the generosity of previous blood donors in the past. I am thankful to each of them. I now hope that my donation can help the family members or friends of somebody else out there.
Good for you, Nella! I know what you mean about "why didn't I do this sooner when you save 3 lives each time?!" - I started doing it as a work drive with my old employer, a great feeling.
ReplyDeleteI've been meaning to go back and give plasma, but have had a bit of a cold lately, so will hold off till then, but they have kept asking for it because of my rar(ish) blood type of AB+ which can be received by any blood type. Does take 45 minutes to give plasma though I'm told...
I don't know, think they gotta filter it somehow, but I've been told they bring the drinks to you while the blood flows which is a bit of a perk.. hehehe.