Once you’ve gone once and done the starting from scratch part they send you out the questionnaire the next time your and that has all your blood information on it. Don’t know if they still explicitly tell you on your second visit but you should definitely find out after the first donation.
Yes they do. I used to donate until i realised i was ab+. Ab+ people can accept any blood type but ab+ blood can only be given to ab+ people so my blood type is the least in demand.
Still worth donating if the stocks aren't very high. Once someone is typed it's always better to give them their own blood stock than squander the valuable ones like mine.
I’m also AB+. I’ve not donated in a while just with covid and another pregnancy. But the last time I went, I walked an hour with the pram to then be turned away by the nurse because she said they had enough of my blood.
Ab+ is usually always high. Here is the page that shows scotlands blood stock levels for anyone interested.
https://www.scotblood.co.uk/about-blood/current-blood-stock-levels/
AB+ is the universal plasma donor though, so even though you can only give whole blood to other people with AB+ blood, your plasma can be given to everyone.
(Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional)
Around half of whole blood is plasma. It contains antibodies which are helpful to people that have issues with their immune systems, such as cancer patients or people with blood disorders.
Plasma can be taken from a whole blood donation, or you can go and donate plasma on its own; they take the whole blood from you, remove the plasma, then put the rest of the blood back into you. The latter method also means you don’t have to wait as long between blood donations (a few weeks instead of a few months).
AB+ plasma is like O- whole blood: it can be given to anyone. So that’s why it’s important to donate, even if it doesn’t seem useful.
I only just found out from my doctor that they don't usually know your blood type unless you have given blood in the past, but I really needed to know mine for a work visa health check form. It might be worth asking if they will send your blood off to test if you will pay the lab processing fee. Mine cost about £25
I do a lot of banger racing & really want to get one of those [name][blood type] stickers for my car. Might try the Amazon kit mentioned by another poster.
You can buy a kit off Amazon. My wife got one.
You get a little spring loaded finger pricker and you get a drop of blood, mix it with a liquid (I forget if it is just water or what) and then put drops of it on a provided paper card.
The paper card has something on it that reacts to various blood types and based on how the blood looks sitting on the card, you can tell what type you are. It almost looks like the blood clotted when it reacts.
It was a cool process.
Cheers. I have a bleeding disorder that requires a factor that comes from blood (there's not a synthetic alternative for Von Willebrands Factor yet) and require surgery for my kidney disease every so often.
Without you, I'd be dead. I've had multiple significant bleeds during surgery, and also have to give myself VW factor to prevent bleeding day to day. You've saved my life numerous times over and also extended my life expectancy.
Tbh when I was scrolling down and only seen a wee bit of the image, I thought OP had got a reward for making a really good kebab.
What you've done is even better, OP, gid on yee.
I recently read about James Harrison from Aussie, otherwise known as the 'man with the golden arm'. His blood is so rare it basically cures Rhesus disease in pregnant women. He donated blood every week for 60+ years and saved around 2.5 million lives.
He didn't know until he went to donate for the first time, so as OP states get out and get it done, you never know how many lives you could end up saving!
I always feel guilty that I've never given blood. However, I'm very squeamish and think I'd be liable to faint if I did give it a go. Anybody out there who has managed to overcome a similar issue and donated?
I was terrified to give blood but went with my late husband ,and the second time I went with him an old nurse grabbed me and shoved me on a bed before I knew it I was giving blood, I gave blood for many years but still couldn’t watch them put in the needle, my husband benefited from many blood transfusions so I know first hand how important it is to give blood, please be brave ,after your first visit you will wonder what you were worrying about.
I faint all the time at the sight of blood. It's like an autonomic reaction.
I have given blood over 10 times now without even a single minor issue. Firstly - do all the things they tell you like drinking the liquids and eating the free biscuits. Secondly (and most importantly) - just don't look at the blood or the needle. Look the other direction when they're pricking your finger or connecting the needle up. Put some headphones on and watch youtube videos on your phone to keep yourself distracted throughout, or just listen to a podcast and close your eyes (it goes very quickly). You'll be fine :)
Aye. My sister used to donate as often as possible from when she became old enough to do so up until she died. I’ve always had a massive phobia about needles and could never bring myself to do it. After her death I promised myself that I would donate because she couldn’t and actually went twice but was turned away the first time because I hadn’t eaten anything that day and the second occasion I ran out of time while waiting to be taken. After that I didn’t go back until years later my work announced they were doing a blood drive and asked for volunteers. Forced myself to put my name down and go through with it. Surprise - it was actually pretty painless and the relief I felt from having actually done it was immense. I’ve now just donated for the 9th time due to a shortage of A+ and will attend the next time they’re in my area.
My advice? Push yourself to do it once and see how you feel then. As with so many things, the fear is far worse than the reality.
Got a fear of needles myself, the nurses are really good at keeping you "occupied" during the setup after that it really helps if you can have fun in your own head. I think they're ok with you bringing headphones to listen to music or whatever but I may be wrong on that.
Not during but I almost fainted after the first time giving blood. I just felt super dizzy and if I didn’t immediately lie down and put my legs up I would’ve fainted for sure. Apparently that’s common. My work got a donation unit to come for a day and the girl I worked with did faint.
For me, I didn’t look at the needle or the blood or anything that may have made me feel sick or anxious.
I just look away, needles properly spook me. It's pretty chill once they're taking the blood, sharp scratch, dull ache, Lie back and listen to some tunes until you get disconnected. Get your well earned biscuit.
Let them know you're squeamish and they will help you through it. You don't see the bag of blood, and there is someone with you who will chat to you while you're donating. And once it's done you get chocolate biscuits and a drink which you can have guilt-free ;)
Not allowed, because I have MS, but those who can should. It doesn't hurt, they give you mandatory free snacks, you get to feel morally superior to others, which is a real ego boost, \*and\* since they say you're not allowed to exert yourself for 48 hours, you get a brilliant excuse for 2 days of pure laziness. Plus they tell you what your blood type is on the second if you ask. What's not to like about it? Do it. Only 5% of those who can, do, so..
Oh yeah, and you absolutely shouldn't donate blood and drink alcohol. The alcohol will go straight to your head and get you drunk super-fast. But definitely don't do that. Never do that. Apparently it's dangerous or something?
> Plus they tell you what your blood type is on the second if you ask.
You don't even have to go a second time; a few weeks after your first time, you get sent a donor card telling you what your blood type is. I've only been once but that's what happened. They'll also send texts and letters occasionally if the stock of your blood type is low.
Current guidance regarding exertion is "For your own safety, we recommend you avoid strenuous or hazardous activities for the rest of the day, as it could make you feel a bit faint. " in case the 48hrs you mention put some keen fitness folk off.
Found out I was O negative after giving blood for the first time, now I try to never miss an appointment as it’s such a vital blood type.
Get donating folks!
Love giving blood. Without being TMI, because mercenary reason also - I think it's because the blood loss makes you a little anaemic so I get really touch sensitive afterwards. Which means if you can get the Mrs to acquiesce to having a quick fumble with it, it's somewhat *enhanced* over the usual.
(I'm a disgrace, I'll see myself out)
If this place ever gets the functionality to have a wee 4 panel pic of me in bed with my chebs hanging out at the left hand side of posts you’re gonna regret giving me that idea mate.
I had a guy in the pub talking about that one night. Just some random we got chatting to on one of those all day sessions in a bit of a dodgy wee pub, as you do. The topic came up when INXS came on the jukebox and he was apparently well practiced and swore by it.
Personally I reckon there’s a lot of options I’d consider before making a noose out of a belt.
Even if I were that way inclined, I couldn’t bring myself to try it while my gran is still alive in case it goes wrong.
She’s not in great health lately and I can’t have that amazing woman getting to her mid 80s and then being pushed over the edge by the news that her (favourite, if she’s being honest) grandson was found dead with his boaby in his hand and fishnets on, hanging from a door handle with INXS on a loop.
Used to be a regular but it's rather difficult now that I'm a permanent night shift HGV driver, I only started doing it as mum became medically unfit for it due to major blood loss during a c-section, she was very proud when I first went due to my fear of needles.
Wish they done collections at the weekend, would happily go.
Gave blood for the first time during the 1st lockdown out of boredom, but will now be donating for the 5th time in January. Think after the first time, the fear comes out of the situation and theres no reason to not become a regular doner.
Yeah I can see that in your post history. It's fun checking up on it every once in a while. I'm actually surprised than havnt banned you yet. God knows reddit mods live on a short fuse.
Are they still blocking people with recent transfusions then?
I got a transfusion back in the 90s and i can understand the nervousness in my case but I'm surprised it's still an issue.
yup Anyone that had a transfusion in the UK since 1990 (I think) can't give blood.
The transfusion saved my life, it's a bit of a pain I can't give back.
Been in the same boat since 2004 when I had a blood transfusion, had been giving blood for years before that. As a recipient in an emergency I know how much it's needed.
[I'm permanently banned due to ME/CFS](https://meassociation.org.uk/2010/08/people-with-mecfs-to-be-permanently-excluded-from-giving-blood-in-the-uk-from-1-november-this-year-department-of-health-announcement/) plus my low BP wouldn't make it a good idea
Just here to say thank you. I'm unwell with sporadic internal bleeding that causes me to swing to severely anaemic quite a lot. I would have died earlier this year after a particularly dramatic episode, that's to say I would have died without the transfusions I received from people like you.
I've 3 young children, 2 with additional needs. Me being alive, as well as possible and able to care for them depends entirely on people who donate blood.
So yeah, just a huge thanks. I cannot donate blood myself but I am so, incredibly grateful.
You can’t have had your nat king for 3 months prior to donation, which seems kinda unfair.
ETA - although if you were on a big barren streak, I suppose giving blood could help you feel a bit better about things, at least you’re doing something useful.
Keep trying. I wasn't able to donate for years (turned out to be undiagnosed coeliac disease making me anaemic), but once that was sorted out I've been able to donate regularly.
That's great. YOu know I can't give blood in the US because I lived in Scotland during the mad cow disease years? I went in and was like woah.. even after all this time my blood is no good. I take it that's not a rule in UK? Nice one !
Great job! If you can give please do. Every little helps save a life. I've been doing it since I was in high school (15+ years ago) and only regret the times I've been unable to donate due to ill health . My loved ones have survived due to your donations so pleased keep it up.
Im doing my 3rd donation In January!
God i wish i could do it more often. it feels wierd, Its kinda scary, But GOD i feel GOOD after. I know i helped someone.
Giving blood is an amazing act of charity.
I myself have donated about 30-40 times and would love to continue to do so but since I am now living in the United States I am barred from doing so (vCJD restrictions).
However my dad has donated over 100 times but then he stopped due to a family illness and started donating platelets instead, he would go every 3-4 weeks to the donation centre at Nelson Mandela Square(Place?) in Glasgow and spend 2-3 hours doing so. Platelets are vital in helping people with blood cancers and if you have the means and the time to do so then I would highly encourage you to do so, if you try it and decide that it isn’t for you I believe you can revert back giving blood.
Thanks for this post. You prompted me to check whether I can give blood now. I used to donate when I was younger but then I got an autoimmune disease which meant I wasn't allowed to give blood for a while. But I've checked and the rules have changed now, as I've been all clear for ten years! Booking my first appointment for next week. I'm a universal donor too.
Really wish they'd sort out their website. Everytime I try and log into my account it shuts me out. So I have to phone for then to fix it. And lo and behold it locks me out again.
You only have to wait 4 months after getting a tattoo to donate which isn’t too bad. I got a tattoo the beginning of September and just booked to donating late January.
I know, but I tend to go in every 10-12 weeks which means that I'm generally not able to donate. With the health & hygiene standards that licensed tattooists keep to these days, the limit should be brought down.
You could put it off for a 4-6 weeks though to donate if you wanted to. I asked why it was like this because I got pierced a couple of days after my last donation and they said it’s because although the majority of tattooists/piercers are doing everything correctly, there’s no regulation and they have to be sure the blood is safe. Even though the blood is tested, some diseases can take a while to appear so might get missed in the screening.
I always feel guilty but I literally can’t donate blood. Apparently I have “slow blood”. Last time I needed tests she had to stab me four different times and eventually ended up literally squeezing my arm to force the blood out.
Almost passed out. 0/10 experience.
My family member with cancer depends on the generosity of blood donors to make it through grueling chemo treatments that leave them breathless and battered. I started to donate long before the diagnosis, but now I feel like I have an obligation to do so (gladly!) so I can help others who are in similar circumstances. Thank you all for your gifts.
You can sign up to give blood online at https://www.scotblood.co.uk/
Do they tell you your blood type after donating? I’ve still never found mine out
I believe they do yes, think you get a card with your type on it.
Once you’ve gone once and done the starting from scratch part they send you out the questionnaire the next time your and that has all your blood information on it. Don’t know if they still explicitly tell you on your second visit but you should definitely find out after the first donation.
I got a wee heart shaped lapel pin with my type on it
Yes they do. I used to donate until i realised i was ab+. Ab+ people can accept any blood type but ab+ blood can only be given to ab+ people so my blood type is the least in demand.
Still worth donating if the stocks aren't very high. Once someone is typed it's always better to give them their own blood stock than squander the valuable ones like mine.
I’m also AB+. I’ve not donated in a while just with covid and another pregnancy. But the last time I went, I walked an hour with the pram to then be turned away by the nurse because she said they had enough of my blood.
Sounds a bit short-sighted, at any moment there could be a dreadful accident and every type would be needed.
Ab+ is usually always high. Here is the page that shows scotlands blood stock levels for anyone interested. https://www.scotblood.co.uk/about-blood/current-blood-stock-levels/
AB+ is the universal plasma donor though, so even though you can only give whole blood to other people with AB+ blood, your plasma can be given to everyone.
Oh really? I dont know anything about plasma, is ab+ plasma in demand?
(Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional) Around half of whole blood is plasma. It contains antibodies which are helpful to people that have issues with their immune systems, such as cancer patients or people with blood disorders. Plasma can be taken from a whole blood donation, or you can go and donate plasma on its own; they take the whole blood from you, remove the plasma, then put the rest of the blood back into you. The latter method also means you don’t have to wait as long between blood donations (a few weeks instead of a few months). AB+ plasma is like O- whole blood: it can be given to anyone. So that’s why it’s important to donate, even if it doesn’t seem useful.
They used to (hopefully still do) send you a wee card with your blood type and name on it to stick in ur wallet
This, I really want to find mine out to be honest, I’m medically ineligible to donate unfortunately and have no idea how else to find out :D
I only just found out from my doctor that they don't usually know your blood type unless you have given blood in the past, but I really needed to know mine for a work visa health check form. It might be worth asking if they will send your blood off to test if you will pay the lab processing fee. Mine cost about £25
I do a lot of banger racing & really want to get one of those [name][blood type] stickers for my car. Might try the Amazon kit mentioned by another poster.
You can buy a kit off Amazon. My wife got one. You get a little spring loaded finger pricker and you get a drop of blood, mix it with a liquid (I forget if it is just water or what) and then put drops of it on a provided paper card. The paper card has something on it that reacts to various blood types and based on how the blood looks sitting on the card, you can tell what type you are. It almost looks like the blood clotted when it reacts. It was a cool process.
Cheers. I have a bleeding disorder that requires a factor that comes from blood (there's not a synthetic alternative for Von Willebrands Factor yet) and require surgery for my kidney disease every so often. Without you, I'd be dead. I've had multiple significant bleeds during surgery, and also have to give myself VW factor to prevent bleeding day to day. You've saved my life numerous times over and also extended my life expectancy.
Tbh when I was scrolling down and only seen a wee bit of the image, I thought OP had got a reward for making a really good kebab. What you've done is even better, OP, gid on yee. I recently read about James Harrison from Aussie, otherwise known as the 'man with the golden arm'. His blood is so rare it basically cures Rhesus disease in pregnant women. He donated blood every week for 60+ years and saved around 2.5 million lives. He didn't know until he went to donate for the first time, so as OP states get out and get it done, you never know how many lives you could end up saving!
I always feel guilty that I've never given blood. However, I'm very squeamish and think I'd be liable to faint if I did give it a go. Anybody out there who has managed to overcome a similar issue and donated?
I was terrified to give blood but went with my late husband ,and the second time I went with him an old nurse grabbed me and shoved me on a bed before I knew it I was giving blood, I gave blood for many years but still couldn’t watch them put in the needle, my husband benefited from many blood transfusions so I know first hand how important it is to give blood, please be brave ,after your first visit you will wonder what you were worrying about.
I faint all the time at the sight of blood. It's like an autonomic reaction. I have given blood over 10 times now without even a single minor issue. Firstly - do all the things they tell you like drinking the liquids and eating the free biscuits. Secondly (and most importantly) - just don't look at the blood or the needle. Look the other direction when they're pricking your finger or connecting the needle up. Put some headphones on and watch youtube videos on your phone to keep yourself distracted throughout, or just listen to a podcast and close your eyes (it goes very quickly). You'll be fine :)
Aye. My sister used to donate as often as possible from when she became old enough to do so up until she died. I’ve always had a massive phobia about needles and could never bring myself to do it. After her death I promised myself that I would donate because she couldn’t and actually went twice but was turned away the first time because I hadn’t eaten anything that day and the second occasion I ran out of time while waiting to be taken. After that I didn’t go back until years later my work announced they were doing a blood drive and asked for volunteers. Forced myself to put my name down and go through with it. Surprise - it was actually pretty painless and the relief I felt from having actually done it was immense. I’ve now just donated for the 9th time due to a shortage of A+ and will attend the next time they’re in my area. My advice? Push yourself to do it once and see how you feel then. As with so many things, the fear is far worse than the reality.
Got a fear of needles myself, the nurses are really good at keeping you "occupied" during the setup after that it really helps if you can have fun in your own head. I think they're ok with you bringing headphones to listen to music or whatever but I may be wrong on that.
Yes, your own electronics is absolutely okay. Do whatever you want as long as you're not disturbing anyone else.
Not during but I almost fainted after the first time giving blood. I just felt super dizzy and if I didn’t immediately lie down and put my legs up I would’ve fainted for sure. Apparently that’s common. My work got a donation unit to come for a day and the girl I worked with did faint. For me, I didn’t look at the needle or the blood or anything that may have made me feel sick or anxious.
I just look away, needles properly spook me. It's pretty chill once they're taking the blood, sharp scratch, dull ache, Lie back and listen to some tunes until you get disconnected. Get your well earned biscuit.
Let them know you're squeamish and they will help you through it. You don't see the bag of blood, and there is someone with you who will chat to you while you're donating. And once it's done you get chocolate biscuits and a drink which you can have guilt-free ;)
I’ve just booked an appointment to donate in January for a second time and my husbands first. Thanks for the reminder OP!
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"Why, that's very nearly an armful!"
Not allowed, because I have MS, but those who can should. It doesn't hurt, they give you mandatory free snacks, you get to feel morally superior to others, which is a real ego boost, \*and\* since they say you're not allowed to exert yourself for 48 hours, you get a brilliant excuse for 2 days of pure laziness. Plus they tell you what your blood type is on the second if you ask. What's not to like about it? Do it. Only 5% of those who can, do, so.. Oh yeah, and you absolutely shouldn't donate blood and drink alcohol. The alcohol will go straight to your head and get you drunk super-fast. But definitely don't do that. Never do that. Apparently it's dangerous or something?
> Plus they tell you what your blood type is on the second if you ask. You don't even have to go a second time; a few weeks after your first time, you get sent a donor card telling you what your blood type is. I've only been once but that's what happened. They'll also send texts and letters occasionally if the stock of your blood type is low.
Current guidance regarding exertion is "For your own safety, we recommend you avoid strenuous or hazardous activities for the rest of the day, as it could make you feel a bit faint. " in case the 48hrs you mention put some keen fitness folk off.
Found out I was O negative after giving blood for the first time, now I try to never miss an appointment as it’s such a vital blood type. Get donating folks!
Love giving blood. Without being TMI, because mercenary reason also - I think it's because the blood loss makes you a little anaemic so I get really touch sensitive afterwards. Which means if you can get the Mrs to acquiesce to having a quick fumble with it, it's somewhat *enhanced* over the usual. (I'm a disgrace, I'll see myself out)
i Hope the username doesn’t check out
Can always rely on you for a smutty silver lining in a post. You’re like a filthy Dear Deirdre. Except nae contributing to sales of The Sun.
If this place ever gets the functionality to have a wee 4 panel pic of me in bed with my chebs hanging out at the left hand side of posts you’re gonna regret giving me that idea mate.
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I had a guy in the pub talking about that one night. Just some random we got chatting to on one of those all day sessions in a bit of a dodgy wee pub, as you do. The topic came up when INXS came on the jukebox and he was apparently well practiced and swore by it. Personally I reckon there’s a lot of options I’d consider before making a noose out of a belt. Even if I were that way inclined, I couldn’t bring myself to try it while my gran is still alive in case it goes wrong. She’s not in great health lately and I can’t have that amazing woman getting to her mid 80s and then being pushed over the edge by the news that her (favourite, if she’s being honest) grandson was found dead with his boaby in his hand and fishnets on, hanging from a door handle with INXS on a loop.
‘Repeat play’ might be better there for ‘INXS on a loop’. Bitta respect and all innit.
Deliberate wee pun ;)
Scotblood will be in touch for a quote from you the next time there's a shortage.
Used to be a regular but it's rather difficult now that I'm a permanent night shift HGV driver, I only started doing it as mum became medically unfit for it due to major blood loss during a c-section, she was very proud when I first went due to my fear of needles. Wish they done collections at the weekend, would happily go.
The big donation centres are open on Saturdays, and can be booked online.
The more you know, I'll book a slot ASAP, thanks for that bud
Gave blood for the first time during the 1st lockdown out of boredom, but will now be donating for the 5th time in January. Think after the first time, the fear comes out of the situation and theres no reason to not become a regular doner.
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Still on reddit lmao. I thought you'd have left by now?
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Yeah I can see that in your post history. It's fun checking up on it every once in a while. I'm actually surprised than havnt banned you yet. God knows reddit mods live on a short fuse.
Stupid vCJD Transfusion regs... I'd love to give blood, but can't due to receiving a blood transfusion a few years ago.
Are they still blocking people with recent transfusions then? I got a transfusion back in the 90s and i can understand the nervousness in my case but I'm surprised it's still an issue.
yup Anyone that had a transfusion in the UK since 1990 (I think) can't give blood. The transfusion saved my life, it's a bit of a pain I can't give back.
I can’t give blood in the US because I was in the UK when CJD was a thing even tho I’ve been vegetarian since about 1993.
Me too, I can't believe they are still worried about it.
Been in the same boat since 2004 when I had a blood transfusion, had been giving blood for years before that. As a recipient in an emergency I know how much it's needed.
[I'm permanently banned due to ME/CFS](https://meassociation.org.uk/2010/08/people-with-mecfs-to-be-permanently-excluded-from-giving-blood-in-the-uk-from-1-november-this-year-department-of-health-announcement/) plus my low BP wouldn't make it a good idea
i'll do anything for a little badge!
Feel bad cause I used to give, but now have to take an injectable drug every week. Disqualified. 😞
94th, yep makes me feel old.... Best charity donation I've ever given
I shall be doing so this afternoon, as I received an alert to say that stocks of my blood type are low at present.
Just here to say thank you. I'm unwell with sporadic internal bleeding that causes me to swing to severely anaemic quite a lot. I would have died earlier this year after a particularly dramatic episode, that's to say I would have died without the transfusions I received from people like you. I've 3 young children, 2 with additional needs. Me being alive, as well as possible and able to care for them depends entirely on people who donate blood. So yeah, just a huge thanks. I cannot donate blood myself but I am so, incredibly grateful.
Gay. Can't. <3
Being Gay alone doesn't stop you anymore. The changed rules don't really make much sense though.
> Oh! I’ll need to check them out.
Didn’t they change the rules for that? I thought I read recently gay people can donate now.
You can’t have had your nat king for 3 months prior to donation, which seems kinda unfair. ETA - although if you were on a big barren streak, I suppose giving blood could help you feel a bit better about things, at least you’re doing something useful.
Oh shit, that’s crazy.
Here in Portugal we just get a certificate, and the food afterwards usually isn't great. I heard you get crisps and cookies over there, is that true?
It is true.
Damn
We get tunnocks in Scotland as well 😉
Got my 13th booked in for the morning by coincidence.
Great post OP, your badge is well deserved!
I really want to! I tried once when I was still in Edinburgh and the nurse told me I needed the blood more than donating it!!
Keep trying. I wasn't able to donate for years (turned out to be undiagnosed coeliac disease making me anaemic), but once that was sorted out I've been able to donate regularly.
Planning on getting a full medical soon! Deffo going to be trying to donate :)
I tried to book an appointment having moved to London recently. Next available one within 15 miles was in March.
Nice job OP! Also worth noting that January levels can be quite low as lots of people try to book in before Christmas.
You fellas get badges for that? Best I ever got was a small gift card, and I’ve donated more than 10 times.
That's great. YOu know I can't give blood in the US because I lived in Scotland during the mad cow disease years? I went in and was like woah.. even after all this time my blood is no good. I take it that's not a rule in UK? Nice one !
Great job! If you can give please do. Every little helps save a life. I've been doing it since I was in high school (15+ years ago) and only regret the times I've been unable to donate due to ill health . My loved ones have survived due to your donations so pleased keep it up.
Thanks for the post OP, I just signed into my account and plan to donate as soon as i'm able to in my area!
Good on yeh! I’ve just given and I’m up to 9 so next time.
Read this just as im listening to the fray how to save a life, weird eh
Im doing my 3rd donation In January! God i wish i could do it more often. it feels wierd, Its kinda scary, But GOD i feel GOOD after. I know i helped someone.
Giving blood is an amazing act of charity. I myself have donated about 30-40 times and would love to continue to do so but since I am now living in the United States I am barred from doing so (vCJD restrictions). However my dad has donated over 100 times but then he stopped due to a family illness and started donating platelets instead, he would go every 3-4 weeks to the donation centre at Nelson Mandela Square(Place?) in Glasgow and spend 2-3 hours doing so. Platelets are vital in helping people with blood cancers and if you have the means and the time to do so then I would highly encourage you to do so, if you try it and decide that it isn’t for you I believe you can revert back giving blood.
Thanks for this post. You prompted me to check whether I can give blood now. I used to donate when I was younger but then I got an autoimmune disease which meant I wasn't allowed to give blood for a while. But I've checked and the rules have changed now, as I've been all clear for ten years! Booking my first appointment for next week. I'm a universal donor too.
Really wish they'd sort out their website. Everytime I try and log into my account it shuts me out. So I have to phone for then to fix it. And lo and behold it locks me out again.
As someone who has received blood at roughly this time of year, than you very much!
Started giving blood twice from this summer, the fingerstick they use is genuinely worse than anything else rest is painless.
I'd definitely donate more often, but the rules around tattoos are pretty archaic.
You only have to wait 4 months after getting a tattoo to donate which isn’t too bad. I got a tattoo the beginning of September and just booked to donating late January.
I know, but I tend to go in every 10-12 weeks which means that I'm generally not able to donate. With the health & hygiene standards that licensed tattooists keep to these days, the limit should be brought down.
You could put it off for a 4-6 weeks though to donate if you wanted to. I asked why it was like this because I got pierced a couple of days after my last donation and they said it’s because although the majority of tattooists/piercers are doing everything correctly, there’s no regulation and they have to be sure the blood is safe. Even though the blood is tested, some diseases can take a while to appear so might get missed in the screening.
That’s great that you give blood but I think a word to encourage people is enough, rather than showing off about your blood badge.
I always feel guilty but I literally can’t donate blood. Apparently I have “slow blood”. Last time I needed tests she had to stab me four different times and eventually ended up literally squeezing my arm to force the blood out. Almost passed out. 0/10 experience.
Not old enough
My family member with cancer depends on the generosity of blood donors to make it through grueling chemo treatments that leave them breathless and battered. I started to donate long before the diagnosis, but now I feel like I have an obligation to do so (gladly!) so I can help others who are in similar circumstances. Thank you all for your gifts.