I do something amazing. I give blood.
So goes the National Blood Service strapline. Today was my tenth donation, and they gave me a pin badge! I'm A negative which means that I'm quite rare (ok, not *that* rare) - there's only five days stock left of my type at current levels because it needs to be replenished often. Group O is the most common which means it's in demand the most.
It takes less than an hour all told (forms, test, feet up, free biscuits, the lot) and it only involves one needle (and one tiny prick on your finger). Almost anyone between the ages of 17 and 60 can become a new blood donor. You get a free cup of tea and biscuits, and a warm feeling inside.
Only about 5% of the population who are able to do give blood: you could well be one of the 95%. I started giving because of someone who need a tranfusion after giving birth - someone had gone along and given a pint for her when she needed it without any of us knowing. I know I'm not the only one who's grateful...
technorati tag: national blood service
8 comments:
I was desperate to give blood when I was younger. I went on my year out to Uganda and had malaria, so I couldn't give blood. Then they developed a test but it was only available in the South East - I even had a failed monstrous trek across London in the rain to try to get my blood ok-ed. Finally the test came to Manchester and I gave blood a few times. And then stopped.
I guess it's a combination of things - I really hate the whole process, it's a faff to actually get to anywhere to give blood, quite often I've been a bit under the weather - there's always a good reason not to but I should really try to start going again.
At least, Sarah, you made the effort. Your actions have had an effect.
If you are able to give blood, but you've never bothered to do so, you are an idiot.
For those that no longer want to be an idiot: http://www.blood.co.uk/
I tried to give blood once. I say tried. Walked into this imposing room, completely empty aside from a chair and about 4 nurses (like something out of a hammer horror movie TBH). Sat down and they didn't even bother to ask my name, just started a list of questions about my past (have I taken drugs, do I have aids, do I smoke, etc.). Not friendly about it at all.. it was like an interrogation. They couldn't use me after all and kicked me out again... whole process took less than 5 minutes but I'll never forget the experience.
It may well be true as you say that only 5% are able to give blood. They are pretty selective.
What strikes me as unfair is that you cannot give blood if you are a sexually active gay man, or a man who has had sex with another man. In an era where you can get your blood tested, as Sarah has, surely practical objections have been overcome?
...Lev
Thanks, Lev. Its basically a very unpleasant discrimination. I used to give blood regularly but got tired of having to lie about who I am.
Lev, Mark, I'm feeling what you're saying. Then again, I wouldn't want straight blood... I mean, eeew, it's been near GIRLS. ;)
You also can't give blood if you have received any blood since 1980 (from their website - http://www.blood.co.uk/pages/flash_questions.html)... ironic that the people that benefit from blood donors aren't allowed to give back!!
I agree a blood test would sort it out. No need for these blunt instrument questionnaires that are basically random anyway.
Blunt instrument... needles... must resist obvious joke... must resist obvious joke...
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