Be a blood donor and here's why

Be a blood donor. It’s in you to give.

*This is not a sponsored post. This is something that I truly believe in*

My uncle suffered for a year with lymphoma. In order to survive, and then prolong his life, he had to receive frequent blood transfusions.

A few months before he died, he said,

“If anyone wants to give me a present, they should go give blood.”

My aunt, ever the witty one, replied, “What makes you think anyone wants to give you a present!”

But, of course, we all did.

I had never given blood before. I’m not squeamish of needles because I have to get blood tests all the time for my thyroid condition. I had heard that women lose a lot of blood already and shouldn’t give. I had thought I didn’t have enough time. I didn’t know how to sign up. The list of excuses were long.

My cousin was home for a visit, and he convinced me to come along with him to give blood.

Let me tell you. The Canadian Blood Services is an efficient, well-oiled machine! It is organized, the people are so friendly which makes the process easy and not overwhelming.

Canadian Blood Services recommends that you make an appointment before you go.

Phone 1 888 2 Donate

or find a clinic near you online.

Even if you don’t make an appointment, show up at the door (with ID) and they will fit you in somewhere!

There are a few stations that you go through before you actually give blood.

Registration with ID. They will also ask you if you would like to rebook.
Iron test – I think this part hurts the most. They prick your finger and make sure your iron levels aren’t too low to donate.
Questionnaire – you go to a private desk where you answer several questions about your medical history. This is another screening process.

Before you go, you should have a look at their website to see if you qualify.

My friend was excluded for having lived in France at a particular time.

Meeting with a nurse – you will have your blood pressure and temperature checked. Also there is a series of questions about your medical and sexual history.
Giving blood – if you pass all the above tests and screens, you can give blood.

The donation process takes about 7 to 12 minutes. The room is full of qualified people to help you in case you feel light headed, or just want to chat to make the time go faster. I usually bring a book to read.

6. Rest and Replenish – Following your donation, you sit and rest for 5 minutes before heading to the refreshment area where you should eat something sweet and drink juice to bring up your blood sugar.

It’s that easy!

Here are some things you should know.

Check the list of FAQs
You have to be between 17-70 to donate.
Before you go, don’t brush your teeth with minty paste or use mouthwash! I did once and it elevated the temperature in my mouth and I wasn’t allowed to donate that day!
Wear a shirt/sweater that you can easily roll up your sleeves.