Donating blood

[Kalrog]

*disclaimer: I don't know if this is the right spot, but I couldn't see anywhere else to put it. It certainly isn't CHL related, but it does save lives.*

I have been regularly donating blood for the past several years - 6 times last year and on track for 7 this year (as often as they will take it), but I know that not nearly enough people do this. I am actually going to try out a new donation process (for me anyway) on 10 March, where they will take 1 unit of red blood cells and 2 units of platelets at the same time. I am a bit nervous about this as I have a tendency to get light headed and this will be 45+ minutes hooked up instead of 5+, but I am getting ready for the cycling season and want to switch over to doing mostly platelets for performance reasons.

With that in mind - if anyone wants to join me for the vampire session and cheer me on - or better yet, donate as well - I would love the company. I'll be at the Lamar location in Austin at lunch time.

[Crossfire]

Kalrog - I donate platelets regularly, and usually give 2 units each time.

I have only ONCE given 2 units of platelets and also a unit of red blood together. It didn't go well for me, and I don't think I will do that again. Eat well beforehand, drink something while you are donating, and try to have someone available to drive you home (just in case, this first time).

I know lots of people do this with no problems. I hope it goes well for you! You're a good man!

[Dan20703]

I donate every 3 months (whole blood). I'm on the commit for life program.

It's actually very beneficial for your health (males) and it's just a nice thing to do. Heck, how else can you burn 650 calories in 5 minutes laying down without moving.

[KBCraig]

They don't want my blood. I might have mad cow -- Denny Crane! -- because I lived in Germany '86-'89.

[KC5AV]

I usually give as often as I can... working at a hospital, they tend to have a blood drive pretty often.

[LarryH]

They won't take mine either.

Even before the medical issue that gave me a lifetime "no pass", donating was problematic. I'd typically get light-headed, to the point of nearly passing out.

[AEA]

They like mine! AB+

[chewy555]

I try to donate as much as I can. I work at a hospital too, so its easy, they have a blood drive just about every 8 weeks. I have not tried giving 2 units of platelets, I think that I will look into this.

[Kalrog]

I know we have more Austin members than this. What's wrong? You yella?