 |
I am deathly afraid of needles! but when i gave blood for the first time i was ok with it and it did NOT hurt! so i encourage everybody to donate! there is no better feeling than giving a second chance to somebody that needs blood!!!
|
|
i donate because i can and if it helps somebody i am happy!
|
 |
I first gave in college in 1970. Yesterday I gave my 93rd whole blood donation to the Red Cross. I have also given 11 voluntary pints to other organizations. Next week I will start donating platelets as I have been identified as a high value blood type for them. My goal is to give my weight in blood, 150 pints (or 150 pounds). That will take me about 10 more years!
|
|
I donated blood for the first time as a junior in high school days after my 17th birthday. There was a blood drive at school and it was a way to get out of spanish class. I ended up being sat next to a cute boy at the refreshment table and after 20 minutes of talking we exchanged phone numbers. I later married that boy, we have 6 children and while I couldn't donate for many years due to pregnancies, we recently went back to donate together. We try to schedule it every 2 month as a "date". I love to tell everyone we met at a blood drive!
|
|
My story began when a family member was hospitalized and required numerous transfusions throughout the final year of her life. After witnessing the bags of blood, platelets or plasma necessary, it took several generous souls to prolong her life with us here on Earth.
Realizing that I could be that donor to someone in need, provided me the inspiration to be like those who gave so willing to help others. Once I started donating, it felt good to give back and before I knew it my daughter wanted to do the same, then my son's girlfriend. Just one small deed can lead to one great need for that someone.
|
 |
I was turned away today from donating.
Had a feeling it would happen. Today was my 4th scheduled regular donation since I realized the importance of donating, and my responsibility as an eligible O- donor. I have a son that has an undiagnosed syndrome that requires intensive early intervention and to me the thought that there could be a child out there that I could help by donating blood reenforces the sense of obligation I feel to share my liquid gold with who all I can.
This morning I woke up with a strange rash on my donation arm that I noticed while changing my shirt and my heart sank. After a few hours it didn't go away, and I went in to my appointment but before I checked in I asked to have a nurse look at me. She confirmed that I was unable to give today.
As a precaution I went to the VA Hospital where I receive my medical care and got it checked out, and I remembered that two days before I had been scratched by a bunny rabbit. A BUNNY. I, myself never would of had this checked out as quickly as I did had it of just been any other week. But it was my donation week and I am determined to be a regular donor from now on. If it was just me, I probably would of ignored it for a week, and completely forgotten being scratched trying to take a picture with a bunny rabbit.
But your commitment to having a safe blood supply in a way could of saved my life. I'm sure eventually I would of had it seen, but who knows.
Good news is, the doctor said as soon as the amoxicillian clears me, I'll be ready to donate again.
|
|
I became interested in becoming a Red Cross donor during a drive where I was employed in 1977. Over time, I have received three donor pins; perhaps, working on number four!! I cannot donate currently. Once my doctor clears me, I will return. I do not dwell on the number of lives I have helped save. What concerns me more is how many lives I can continue to help save?
|
|
I have been giving blood for many years now, but it never hit home so hard as when my mom got blood after surgery back in November 2012. I just want to personally thank every good-hearted donor who takes the time & the stick (!?) to help someone who needs what money cannot buy. God bless you every one!
|
 |
I have given over 100 pints of blood. I have been donating for many years. One time they told me they give my blood to children so I am a regular donor unless I've been sick or am sick. My wife had 14 transfusions in the fall of 2002 and I feel like I was paying you back the blood used for her transfusions. I usually give at the Gainesville Donor Center or Cleveland First Baptist Church but I drove to my grandson's school in Woodstock, ga. (95 miles) a couple of weeks ago to give because he asked me to and I could. Therefore, I cannot come in between May 23 to June 30 to be eligible for the prizes you are giving. If I was eligible to give, I'd be there.
|
 |
I started donating when I was 16, at the end of my junior year of high school. I felt compelled to donate because one of my teachers at school was in great need of donations and the blood drive was in honor of her. I also have known many others in my hometown that have benefited from the help of donations from people like me. I even donated blood right before my senior prom, and had a huge yellow bruise on most of my arm. I definitely don't regret it though. I try to donate whenever possible, and don't plan on stopping until I am completely unable.
|
American Red Cross first aid, CPR and AED programs are designed to give you the confidence to respond in emergency situations with the skills that can help to save a life. Learn more »
NEW!
