I donated blood today. It was my ninth donation of the blood. I am not a very regular donor but I try. I actually wanted to donate blood last week but I had a run planned on Monday. It would be very foolish of me to run at full speed a couple of days after giving a considerable amount of your own life liquid.
So I did it this morning.
It Was A Long Morning
It happened that there was a campaign on the news calling in the donors. The supply of the blood is at a critically low level. Vacation time combined with many traffic accidents results in a serious shortage of transfusion blood.
I realised that when I entered the blood donation centre. There was a long line of future donors who were already waiting. Oh well, let's prepare for the wait. It is for a good cause, after all.
There is a line of people behind the doors too
During the wait, I had plenty of time to fill in the obligatory questionnaire. Lots of health and lifestyle related questions including drugs, alcohol, travel, ... The proper answer to majority of the questions is NO, of course :)
In between the two hours plus wait I was checked for the Haemoglobin level and blood pressure. Both were acceptable. Blood pressure was a bit on a low side. This comes with me being a slowish runner.
The Bounty
I also picked up some of the promotional material like rubber balls and a pencil.
We could do this stuff for Steemit too. What do you think?
The slogan on the ball is telling us: "With you the life goes on!"
The Donation
After more than two hours of waiting it was my turn. The donation was carried through professionally and it was quickly over. I admire the staff for their dedicated work.
Unfortunately, the battery in my phone gave up on me so I don't have any pictures of the real action. The cover photo, taken at home afterwards, should suffice. Check out the green tape on my elbow. Fancy, isn't it?
The After Party
There is a buffet room in the center where all donors are entitled to receive a meal. Coffee, juice, sandwiches, croissants, apples, ... Plenty of light and reasonably healthy food.
After more than three hours all together I was able to go home. I felt excellent.
The Moral
I don't want to brag about it. My intention with this article is to remind you about this possibility. If you already are a blood donor that I congratulate you. If you are not - would you, please, consider doing it. Thank you very much.
Why I Donate Blood?
- Because I can really help people in dire need with my blood. It can be - and is - a matter of life and death.
- Because I share positive energy and good karma.
- Because it is human and humane to help each other.
I will certainly donate blood again. You can do it after three months.
It Is Your Turn Now
I am certain that there are many blood donors here at Steemit. Please, come forward with your stories. Thank you!