Seeing red

Yesterday my mum and I donated blood for the first time, as part of an effort by the churches in my city to double the city's blood donation level for the year. Because it's my first time, I even got a free sticker (apart from the free drinks, free food and free lollies that were available for the taking).

Overall, it was a good experience. When you first donate, there's a few pages of forms to fill out, and you have to get your haemoglobin level tested (which involves a little prick on the finger). The nurse that looked after me was really nice, especially once we realised that I work with some people she has worked with in the past. Basically, they make sure you don't have HIV or anything else like that, and that you've had enough drinks and food before donating. I'd been chewing on a cold tub of noodles since I arrived for a last-minute boost.

After the interview, I got the 'all clear' to donate, and headed for the donation couch. The needle didn't sting too badly; besides, I couldn't feel it once it had gone in. I lay there for about 15-20 minutes while half a litre of blood drained into the little bag, and the nurses kept coming up and asking if I was all right.

Finally, I was done, and the nurse took out the needle and told me to put pressure on the cotton wool over my elbow. I must not have pressed hard enough because all of a sudden I started leaking! No matter - they just cleaned up the mess and bandaged my arm. They were all very caring.

After eating and drinking a bit more, Mum and I were allowed to go. They even reheated my noodles for me.

I'm definately going to donate again, and if you are medically able, I'd encourage you to do the same. Blood is something too valuable to buy, but you don't have to be rich to give it to someone who needs it.