The process of donating blood can be intimidating and scary. The comforting part — knowing that my minimal discomfort will relieve three needy individuals and help them in a fight to survive.
Giving blood is one fairly quick and easy way to make a huge difference in your community.
Blood banks work intensely hard to try and get donors. Between fear of needles, prerequisites and a comprehensive list of have and have-nots determining whether or not you are permitted to donate, many individuals are sent away. This creates an even larger demand for blood and donations.
Yesterday I gave blood for my third time. After checking all the "no" boxes on their questionnaire, I began the lengthy health screening. I was happy to get my least favorite part over with — the finger prick necessary for screening your iron and hemoglobin levels. As I rolled up my sleeves, I was hit with a familiar feeling of doubt and anxiety. I do not have a perpetual fear of needles, however, I also don't particularly like to think about a needle resting inside my body for 10-15 minutes while drawing out a full pound of my blood. The pure encouragement and kindness shown by the nurses put me at ease, and I reminded myself why I decided to donate blood in the first place.
As my blood flowed down into the pint-sized bag, I couldn't help but feel pride knowing that my donation would have such a positive impact. There are very few things that allow a similar feeling. I left with a huge smile on my face and a distinct pep in my step.
Funny enough, this lasted approximately two minutes before my ears began to ring and my vision became white. Just before passing out, I found somewhere to sit down, and 15 minutes later I felt OK to walk back to my dorm. My post-donation battle did not quite end there. After showering and doing my hair a few hours later, the sensations in my eyes and ears returned. This time I did not have enough time to make it to a safe spot. Instead, I found myself on the floor of my dorm room with a scratched and bruised knee. Thankfully that was the only part of my body to get a little messed up.
Despite the fact that I did my best to avoid an adverse reaction (drinking plenty of water and eating beforehand) and have never previously had one, I could not prevent what happened. Overall, I am still filled with an overwhelming amount of pride and am satisfied with my donation.
While I might wait a few months before I give blood again, I recognize the importance and necessity of donations and enjoy the feeling I get after doing so.
