"The Blood Is The Life!"

Trust me to use a quote from Dracula about today's experience! I went to donate blood for the first time in my life this evening; it was definitely exciting and interesting. Because I've had so many blood tests, the needles didn't bother me, and all of the staff were clear and instructive, and made me feel at ease. I would occasionally peer over at the blood bag to see the blood, as it comes out of the body so dark it fascinates me. It was amazing to think all of that came from this little needle in my arm!

Afterwards I felt a little bit wobbly, like when a baby antelope has just learned to walk. I soon perked up after a big glass of orange squash and a Penguin bar. I also took two stickers to wear proudly on my way home! Here they are:

(the top one says 'Be nice to me' on it - I accidentally cut it off)

I'm glad I went to do it, as it didn't affect me badly, and I was thrilled when I was told I am able to give blood while on my medication; it's something I've been interested in doing for a long time, and I think I will make this a regular thing. Just knowing that that bag of blood, which wasn't a huge loss to me, may save someone's life one day is an amazing feeling. My little brother Ryan (who came with me to keep me company) seemed both fascinated and slightly revolted, but maintained afterwards that giving blood is something he really wants to do when he's old enough, which he is in just under a year!

I just wanted to make a blog about this because it's a new experience, and I would like to say that it's not at all scary or uncomfortable; once you have that initial needle scratch, it's plain sailing! As long as you follow the staff's instructions, you'll be fine afterwards. I would recommend people go to donate if they are able to and if they meet the criteria for healthy blood giving; blood is always needed in the medical world, and even one donation of just under a pint could potentially keep somebody alive and fighting for longer. 

Because I don't have much money, giving blood is kind of like charity to me (like filling the donation bags that get posted to our house with items I don't want/need any more); it's free to do and makes you feel really good about potentially helping others. Here's a photo of me looking pleased with myself to finish off this entry: