Blood donor month is aimed as raising awareness and participation in assisting
the healthcare systems in providing valuable blood to those in need. According
to the Red Cross, “5 million American patients need blood every
year, and each donation of a pint of blood can help save up to three patients’
lives.”
Many may be squeamish with idea, but recognizing the value of donating
roughly 20 mins of your time (and some blood of course!) you could be
unknowingly providing a life saving solution for a future person that
you know in the case of an accident or operation! You will quickly replace
the blood that you donated, and you shall be able to continue on with
your life knowing that you were part of a small few who actually
donate (according to the Red Cross only 3 in 100 Americans donate blood!).
HOW DO YOU PARTICIPATE?
Step 1. Find a blood donation center near you by clicking
here or here. If there isn’t a blood drive or donation center near you,
volunteer to
host one in your school,community, or faith centers.
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Step 2. Hydrate. The more water you drink before your donation, the better you
will feel during and after. Stocking up on iron-rich foods – like
dark leafy greens and lean meats – will also increase your chances
of being able to give blood.
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Step 3. Once at the donation center, but before you give blood, you will meet
with a nurse or health representative who will ask some basic medical
questions and test your iron levels to make sure you’re in good
shape to donate.
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Step 4. Take a deep breath and smile, you’re about to do something great!
The blood drive representative will give you something to squeeze (to
increase blood flow to the arm), clean your arm thoroughly and begin.
The blood donation itself lasts about 10 minutes and is completely safe
and sterile.
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Step 5. Chill and refresh. While your blood is
processed and packaged to be readied for donation, you get to hang out and refresh yourself.
The blood donation center typically provides juice, cookies and other
snacks to help restore your blood sugar levels.
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Step 6. You’re done! Just be sure to refrain from serious strenuous activity
for the next 24 hours to let your blood levels return to normal.
It is that simple and you can have the confidence of knowingly that you
actively aided in life saving medicine within our country. If you still
find yourself nervous about the idea than
BRING A FRIEND!
If one friend doesn’t give you enough confidence….than by
all means
BRING FIVE FRIENDS
…. whatever you need to get you to become and alumnus of the
Blood Donors Club
!