Donating Blood - You Won’t Regret It

A few years ago, a few friends got together and decided we wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. Thus, our Blood Club was born and lives on still. We don’t keep track but I would venture to guess that collectively, we have donated over 30 units of blood and still going strong.

Wanting to take it step further, I looked into hosting my own drives. And as it turns out, it’s super easy. You basically spread the word to recruit donors - experienced and new. Then you show up that day to facilitate the drive. Super, super easy! I am grateful for the donors that take the time from their day and the blood from their body. It changes the lives of patients and their families.

Blood supplies are super low and the demand is great. The Red Cross runs a smooth drive. You can be in and out in well under an hour - usually much less. You register online and fill out a “rapid pass” to fast track the process. On the day of the drive, the technicians will register you and check your iron level to be sure you are a good candidate. From there, they set you up and draw your blood. This part takes about 10 minutes. Afterwards, you hang out and have a snack to avoid any reactions and you are on your way.

If you are able to donate and I haven’t already convinced you to take the plunge, do what the Blood Club does and make it fun. We make it an event - lunch, pedicures, infrared sauna…anything fun.

You can make it a family affair. My husband, boys and niece have supported my drives by donating. My family know first hand how important blood donations are. They were all more than willing to show up.

My next drive is at the Saxonburg VFW on February 21. Register here https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=SaxonburgVFW

And if that date doesn’t work for you, you can browse local drives at https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive