by Connie Kim
‘Tis the season for giving, and what better thing to give than the gift of life? As cliche as the saying may sound, you really can make a difference and save a life by giving blood. Hospitals and blood banks are looking for donors all year round, and your donation could mean the difference between life and death.
While donating blood can seem like a big move to some people, a lot don’t realize the impact and contribution they could be making through this selfless act. It’s understandable that no one is a fan of needles and the sight of their blood, but it’s a small price to pay when thinking about what it can do for someone else. The benefits outweigh any consequence that you can think of; you have the power to save a life.
People always talk about paying it forward. The random act of kindness is highly praised on social media. People always post a photo of their Starbucks drink on their Twitter or Snapchats after the barista tells them that the customer before paid for their coffee. The concept is similar, except in a much more significant manner.
Other than the obvious outcome of saving a life, people rarely understand that there are a lot more that cause such a demand to it than they think. The human body is extremely selective. Like Goldilocks, it can’t be one way or the other, but it has to be just right. One person’s blood will not work for everyone and anyone; there has to be a perfect match between the donor’s blood and the recipient’s blood. Things such as current medications, sexual history, and of course, blood type and Rh factor are all components that determine whether or not your blood will work with a particular patient in need. While I can do my part and give, it’s important for others to donate too because they may be the other puzzle piece to someone that I may not a match for.
Blood is something that can’t be replicated, and can only be made by humans. All individuals who are healthy produce new blood cells every day. There are people out there who’s lives may depend on a pint, or a couple of pints of blood because of a tragic accident or even because they aren’t able to produce healthy blood for themselves.
Donors must be 18 or older and at least 110 pounds to be considered. Before donating blood, there is a thorough interview and questionnaire that donors are asked in confidence. A finger prick will also be done to evaluate the iron in the blood. The donor is then assigned to a recliner-like bed, where a nurse or a certified phlebotomist will perform the collection. After a pint is collected, you are asked to rest without getting up for a few minutes, and then are sent on your way with some juice and cookies. Not bad, right? The process is quite straightforward and swift.
As a regular donor myself, I would like to encourage all who are healthy and eligible to donate blood, even if it’s just once in your life. As I mentioned before, your body produced new components of blood every day. Donating will not affect your overall health, but it will make a significant impact to the health of those in need. The only downside to it all is the first poke, but once those two seconds are over, you’re a hero. And yes, I understand that the needle may be scary, but there are people in hospital beds who are in critical condition, hurting a lot more than one needle poke could ever hurt you.
Make a difference, save a life, and get into the holiday spirit of giving. Donate blood today.
