Donating blood

[suzannews]

I've only donated once and passed out. They had to flip the chair with my legs in the air and throw a wet towel on my head. The blood mobile came to my work, I was about 21 yrs old, there were cute lifeguards also donating and all I could think about as how that lady just threw a wet towel over my head and messed up my hair! I haven't donated since.

While pregnant, I had no problem with them taking the small viles of blood all the time. Can't I just donated that?!

Anyways, a good friends 3 yr old has terminal leukemia but is still receiving blood and platelets. I would like to donate on the 11th when the blood mobile is in my area.

Any suggestions from donors on what to do and what not to do leading up to my donating so I don't pass out again and make a fool of myself?!

 

[jfulcer]

Don't watch. Cocentrate on something else. Think happy thoughts. East a GOOD breakfast. Think: more than you usually eat. If you eat a piece of fruit, eat a couple. If you eat a bowl of oatmeal, eat some extra. Your body appreciates it.

Your friends 3 yr old and many many other people appreciate you trying again. It could have just been a fluke.

 

[KathyTX]

You might not be a good candidate for a platelet donation right now, because it takes a lot longer than a regular (whole blood) donation. If you make it through a couple of regular donations with no problem, you might want to ask about being a platelet donor later on.

First, be sure you're well rested and that you've had a healthy breakfast or lunch before donating. You want to feel strong.

Being sure you're really well hydrated will make donating easier. Drink lots of water the day before and the day of your donation.

Relax, and think of the person you're helping, and I'll bet you'll be fine this time!

 

[Deesknee]

does anyone that donates have E.T. (essential thrombosis). I recently found out I do. I'm curious if I can donate blood anymore.

I have in the past, but apparently just got this E.T.