Day 288: Blood Donation

After being rejected at Canada Blood Services a few weeks ago for donating blood, I attempted to go again.

This week I had Tuesday off because Monday was a stat holiday. Canada Blood Services on Oak street is closed on Sundays and holidays. I didn't know if I would have time to donate blood on Tuesday. I went to dim sum with my Dad then I went for bubble tea with my friend. After all that food, I drove home and call Canada Blood Services to see if I can do drop in or if I can make an appointment. Lucky me, there was an appointment slot available. I made an appointment and drove there right away. On the phone, the lady said to make sure that my blood sugar level was good and to drink lots of fluids. I got to the Oak Street location and noticed that my blood sugar was dropping. I know it is low when I get weak, cranky and moody. I asked the receptionist if there was a vending machine. She asked me what I was looking for. I told her I needed some sugar. She said I can take some cookies from the refreshment station. I grabbed some Oreos and some Fudge-o's. I felt much better.

I had to do the process from the beginning. They had to check my iron level. I was confident my iron level was good. A few weeks ago I went to my doctor to get a check up done. I told him I get cold easily and he suggested that I get my iron level tested and my thyroid tested. Those test came back fine. Then I had to fill out their questionnaire with the million of questions. Make sure most of your answers are 'no' or else they will prob more on why your answers were 'yes'. Next step is where I was rejected last time. This time it went fine. They took my blood pressure and heart rate. I think this time my heart rate was about 93, not 103 like last time.

There is a small waiting area you have to go before you get to sit on that comfortable chair to give blood. In the waiting area, there are about 9 seats in a 'U' shape. The TV was on the Food Network. I like the Food Network, except when I'm hungry. The food makes me hungry. After waiting for 10 minutes, it was my turn. They ask if you prefer to give blood on your right or your left arm. I chose my left arm because I am right handed and my right hand is my dominant arm. If I have pain on my left arm, that's ok. It's easier to rest it than my right arm. On my lounge chair, I can still watch the Food Network on TV. The most painful part is when they insert the needle in you. It is a pokey feeling. After it is in your arm, it is a bit uncomfortable. Canada Blood Services lets you back out from donating blood at any time you feel uncomfortable. I was thinking since I'm there already, might as well go all the way. I sat there on my lounge chair for about 10-15 minutes before they took out the needle. They escort you off the chair and to the refreshment area. They have juice and cookies. You can sit there for as long as you want until you feel well enough to leave. I had my juice and lots of cookies before I left.

They suggest that you don't do any strenuous activities for 6-8 hours after blood donation. I just came home and rested. I felt quite light headed and weak for the rest of the night. It is good to know that your sacrifice of an hour of your day can save up to three lives.