~National Blood Donor Month~

 Many people do not realize how important blood donation is each month. There are many diseases and many needs for blood bags in the hospitals. I know first hand about the importance of blood donation because I have someone in my life that normally needs at least 10 to 15 bags of blood per year. It's important and it can save a person's life. 

Some ask the question, "Why should I donate blood?"

You don’t need a special reason to give blood.
You just need your own reason.

Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend. Some know that a family member or a friend might need blood some day. Some believe it is the right thing we do.

Whatever your reason, the need is constant and your contribution is important for a healthy and reliable blood supply. And you’ll feel good knowing you've helped change a life.

When you give blood you will receive a mini physical to check your
* Pulse
* Blood pressure
* Body temperature
* Hemoglobin

What can you expect if you give blood? 
Come prepared. Have a light meal and plenty to drink. Bring your donor card, driver's license or two other forms of identification. Bring the names of medications you are taking.

You will go through 

* Registration - The staff and volunteers will sign you in and go over basic eligibility and donation information. You will read information about donating blood, and will be asked to show a donor card, driver's license, or other form(s) of ID.

* A mini physical - You will answer some questions during a private and confidential interview about your health history and places you have traveled.
They will check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level present in a sample of blood.

* The donation - The actual donation takes about 8-10 minutes, during which you will be seated comfortably. The process is safe and sterile. Red Cross staff and volunteers will be available if you have any questions. Certain donation types, such as platelets, red cells or plasma, can take up to two hours.

* Refreshments - After donating, you should have a snack and something to drink in the refreshments area. You can leave the site after 10-15 minutes and continue with your normal daily activities. Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment knowing that you have helped save lives.

How can you be eligible to donate?
To ensure the safety of blood donation for both donors and recipients, all volunteer blood donors must be evaluated to determine their eligibility to give blood. The final determination will be made on the day of the donation at the blood drive or blood donation center. If you were deferred from donating in the past, you may be able to donate again.

Donation Type                                                     Donation Frequency*

Blood (whole blood)                                             Every 56 days

Platelets                                                             Every 7 days, up to 24 times/year

Plasma                                                                Every 28 days, up to 13 times/year

Power Red                                                           Every 112 days, up to 3 times/year

Learn more about donating blood and think about donate blood as soon as possible. 

Signing off 

Dr. Destiny Basset 

aka Big Sister On Point ~I am a donor~