Are you looking for some way to give back yet money is tight? With all the ringing bells, giving trees, and envelopes requesting donations this holiday season, there are ways to give back without costing you any money.
Donating blood is a great way to help the community and requires very little time – in most cases just about an hour. Science has not yet created a way to ‘build blood’ therefore it’s up to you to donate. There are 4 blood types – A, B, AB and O which are then either positive or negative. For example, you might have A positive blood, or O negative. The most common blood type is O positive while the rarest is AB negative. Because of this, it’s important for many people to donate blood for those in need.
Blood is needed for those in an emergency situation as well as those will an illness such as people with cancer or blood disorders. When you give blood, rest assured you’re in the hands of professionals. You must be at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds. They will ask you some physical and health history questions before you donate. None of the needles or bags are reused and you’ll donate about a pint of blood which takes about 10-12 minutes to collect. Don’t worry; you’ll be in a relaxed atmosphere with the option of juice and cookies afterward!
Once collected, your blood is sent for thorough screenings before being directed to where it’s needed. If you wish to direct your blood to a particular person (for example, if a family member or friend is having a major surgery that requires transfusions) you can set-up what’s called ‘autologous’ donation in which you donate ahead of time so your blood is still screened before used by them (assuming you are a match). You can also donate to yourself if you, personally, have to go in for surgery.
Blood that does not pass the screening test is destroyed – not to be used at all ever.
If you want to do a good deed and donate this holiday season (and beyond), then contact your local American Red Cross. The night before, make sure you get a good night’s sleep. Eat a decent breakfast and/or lunch but avoid high fat foods right before collection such as hamburgers, fries, ice cream, cheeses, and bacon. Keep yourself really hydrated with extra water and limit caffeine as it can act like a diuretic. Choose a shirt that can be rolled up above your elbow comfortably.
Remember, not all donations have to cost money – donating blood is free and saves lives!
www.redcross.org
www.givelife2.org