So this past Saturday I signed up to give blood at our church blood drive. Usually when I go in to donate they turn me away because my blood doesn't have enough iron in it. This time I made sure to eat really good throughout the week and drink lots of fluid. I also bought a watermelon because I was told it helps you absorb iron.
Now in the past I haven't always had the best experiences with giving blood. My very first time I donated I was in high school and barely at the age and weight limit needed to donate. After I finished I was sitting in the chair drinking a juice talking to one of my friends from the soccer when all of a sudden things went black and I fainted in my chair! I had never fainted before in my life! Next thing I know I was being lifted up and carried to a reclining chair so they could put my feet above my heart. It was pretty scary.
Even after that for some crazy reason I still like to donate. I have donated a few times since, whenever I wasn't in sports or actually had enough iron to donate. Anyways, this Saturday I was able to donate again and I was really excited. Nervous, but excited. It had been awhile so I didn't know what to expect. Once they actually put the needle in me I was feeling good and breezing through it. Then.... not so good. I had almost finished when all at once I felt nauseous, hot, dizzy, and light headed. Fortunately I was able to finish the unit and this time actually stayed completely conscious. However, ever since Saturday I have been waking up with headaches and sometimes feel light headed when I sit or stand too fast. I am not the kind of person who easily gets sick or feels tired. But its all happens when I give blood.
You may wonder or ask why I put my body through this kind of uneasiness, but the truth is I LOVE GIVING BLOOD! It makes me feel good about myself and I like the idea of possibly saving someones life. I have also been told I have a rare blood type that is the universal donor, where everyone can receive my type of blood. My blood is also the safest type of blood so they use it for sick babies and newborns. And despite the headaches, which I'll still probably be getting everyday for the next month, I love donating blood!! Its well worth it to save a life and be a hero!!
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When I was pregnant and gave blood at my doctors appointment I felt the same way. :) That day was when I first started morning sickness. :) Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteI always wanted to but I never weighed enough to donate... but since having Lily I weigh just a bit more than I used to... hehe.
ReplyDeleteSo I need to now.
You are a trooper to do it even when it makes you feel not so good.