Why I Donate Blood.

Way to go girl! I am proud of you! I am sorry for your losses, but I am glad that you help others.

I had tried giving blood when I was younger, but had such an autonomic reaction to needles that I found I just couldn't do it. I knew it was a good thing to do and always wished I could. The needle thing just got in my way.

Then years later, I was mis-diagnosed with hemochromotosis which led to having to have a pint of blood taken once a week for months, slowly slacking off but continuing over a long period of time. I got used to the needles, but because I was an 'unwilling donor' they couldn't use the blood and instead had to throw it out.
Thankfully I went to another doctor who said I really had nothing wrong with me. Now I'm used to needles and went to give blood again. Sadly, I have some sinus issues and when I went to donate I said as much - and they had to tell me I couldn't donate - I might have the flu or something. It turned me off so much I've not been in a mood to go back. I feel bad about it, but the experience really bothered me.
I have the greatest respect for those who give blood on a regular basis. My wife did until she had a medical issue herself which prevents her from donating. My daughter does, however, on a regular basis.

I have a friend who donates about once a month or so, he got a plaque for 5 gallons., and I do whenever possible and lately I have started giving platelets.

I weigh about 103 lbs or so and I am 5 feet and 3 inches tall. To my knowlede, I am not allowed to donate because of my size. Is there anything else I can donate? I am on the list for Organ Donors if I die.

What you are doing is more valuable than the cookies. Well done and keep up the spirit. I tried donating several times but they did not let me either because of my weight, i didnt have enough blood etc. otherwise I also would love to.

I've donated several times myself and it is one of the best things to do to help another person. I'm not a fan of needles either but I always consider myself lucky if I get a person skilled in inserting needles into a vein because it only feels like a tiny *****.

Sorry for your loss. My father died of a heart attack. He was a smoker most of his life; couldn't quit...until after he was hospitalized the first time. He is convinced that it was because he got the blood of a non-smoker and it cleaned out his system. Not sure if there is any merit to his belief, but it's also something to consider. He went on to live many years after his first heart attack, but the damage was done and eventually ended his life. I too have given blood many times. The sad thing is that I am a universal recipient. Lucky for me, but unfortunate that only those with my blood type can benefit however.

That's good, your a hero. Donating blood is not easy.

i donate blood in every 6 month ... i am a member of Husani Blood Foundation

I just donated blood last month, its my third year actually.. I just dont look at the needles because if I did im sure im going to freak out..

its actually a healthy thing to donate blood once year.. it cleans our system..

and yeah, it can save a life.. which is the most important thing...

By the way, isn't there a procedure to detect traces of mad cow disease? Is it necessary to reject all European blood upfront without further test? Maybe it's too expensive, but what about lack of blood, how are they going to get the quantity they need? I would say, it´s their loss, but actually is not hospitals or blood org's loss, it's individual people's loss, which is not good. Well, someday....