Giving Blood for the First Time
Today I gave blood for the first time - pretty cool experience for sure. I've always known that I should but was glad that I finally got to. After donating it felt like I did my part to help out - even more so than simply donating money. I think I just procrastinated before and didn't want to take the initial step due to indifference or fear of needles. I actually tried to donate once, but was relieved to find out that I wasn't allowed to due to recently traveling to countries that are malaria risks.
Well, it wasn't scary and didn't hurt very much... just two very small pokes - one for the fingertip, and one into the arm. The most painful part of it is actually the 10 minute questionnaire before the entire procedure.
I think I filled up my pint bag of blood in less than five minutes. I was slightly weaker afterwards, but fine once I got some food into my system. You get snacks at the end, which is kind of cool to look forward to as well (especially since I don’t have junk food in my house much anymore).
If you haven't donated yet, don't be afraid and don't procrastinate -- you'll do your part to help others and in turn you will feel better too.