My church was doing a blood drive and so I thought this was a perfect and convenient opportunity to accomplish one of my goals. I have to admit, I was really nervous. Like many people, I am not a fan of needles. But I was determined to face my fear.
When I arrived they ask you a whole list of qualifying questions, take your blood pressure & temperature, and prick your finger to test your blood for iron levels. I passed all these tests with flying colors!
Next they have you take a seat and prep your arm for the needle. [Cue the anxiety] I just squeezed my eyes closed and held my breath. It was over before I knew it and I barely felt a thing! I sat there for about 10-15 minutes as I filled the blood bag with a pint of my blood.
Once I was done, they wrapped up my arm and and asked me to sit for about 15 minutes drinking water and eating snacks (which was my favorite part!).
I am embarrassed to say that this is first time I have ever donated blood in my life, which was why it was one of my goals. But after doing some research on blood donation, it was clear to me that this is something I should make a habit of doing on a regular basis. The statistics gave me a real sense of responsibility. Check out these interesting facts:
Only 38% of the nation’s population is eligible to give blood,
and only 5 percent of those eligible donors across the nation donate blood.
Each whole blood donation can help as many as three people.
One unit is divided into three parts: red blood cells, platelets, and plasma.
In the US and Canada, around 43,000 pints of blood is used everyday.
About 25% of all people worldwide require blood at least once in their lifetime.
Blood cannot be manufactured. It can only come as a gift from people.
So, if you haven't already, I encourage you to give blood too. I know I am so glad that I did.
~ Emily
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