Donate blood

So no more donating blood for me. Something about something I’ve done (even once) since 1977.

Ah well, screw ‘em. If they don’t want my blood, I’ll keep it.

1. Go with a friend. There’s a (very) small chance that you’ll react poorly, and it’s nice to have someone there who you know and can take you home if need be.
2. Drink LOTS of water. Your pee should be completely clear by the time you’re ready to donate.
3. Ask questions. Make sure you understand what you’re doing.
4. DON’T count on it as a free HIV test. The assays they use are less accurate than ones at the doctor, and ethically it’s just the wrong thing to do.
5. Trust your phlebotomist. They know what they’re doing.
6. Take the juice. You may feel fine now, but give it ten or fifteen minutes and you might wish you had take it.
7. The cookies are a good bet too.

The primary reason that I keep giving blood is guilt. I feel like if I can overcome my fear of needles long enough to donate a pint of blood, I’ve gained a little bit of karma. Have a reason that’s stronger than the pain.