The Benefits of Donating Blood

According to the American Red Cross, someone in America needs blood every two seconds. I personally have been one of those people. Receiving this blood saved my life. I did not think I would ever need it, but I did, and I am very thankful that these few unknown people took the time to do this.

Every few months the Red Cross comes to my place of employment and I see so many who do not give. I know not everyone can, but I believe there are lots who don't just because they are afraid or don't want to take the time. They are even being paid by their employer while doing it! You don't need it right now. They aren't taking all of your blood. You can survive without the small amount they take from you. The needle only hurts for a second. You will live through it. The worst that has happened to me while giving blood was vomiting in the middle of it. That happened once only because I did not eat beforehand and my blood sugar dropped too low. I have been back several times since. I have never know anyone to have any serious complications from this. I could not give for a year after my transfusion because the Red Cross has rules against this. After my year was up, I was right back in there.

I have told many people my story and they still won't give their blood. I don't pressure them about it because they could have a personal medical reason for not doing it and I am not one to pry. I just tell them that it saved my life and hope that would be enough to encourage them. Suck it up and save someone's life! You will feel good after you do. If I encourage only one person to donate after this, I will be happy. Feel free to let me know if I am successful!