My blood drive.

So I think I've pretty much indicated that this has been the year of change for me.  I decided last year when I got an email in my inbox for blood donors needed that I was going to conquer my fear.  I have made an entire year now with donating on a schedule of every 8 weeks.  My next donation will make a gallon.  This is a huge feat for me and I will now pat myself on my back.  Ahh that felt great.  I am deathly afraid of needles and my veins are not an easy stick.  The employees at our local blood bank are wonderful.  They know me now so they are very gentle and baby me lol.  Yes, I like to be babied when there is needles involved.  Donating takes an hour tops and there are many benefits to it.  Here are 6 reasons to donate blood (www.aarp.org).

1.  The need is Great!!  Cancer patients are among the most common recipients of blood tranfusions  I think we all know someone who has been affected by cancer.

2.  You can donate. 

3. Older people can give blood more comfortably

4.  You may need blood at some time.  25% of us will need blood at least one time in our life.

5.  You get a FREE mini-physical.  You get your vitals taken. 

This is my recent screening card.  It's cool, I collect them on my desk at work.  Gives me that little sense of pride during the day when I see the stack of them sitting there. 

6.  It's an act of kindness and compassion.  One donation can save the lives of up to 3 people.  :)

If I can do this, anyone can.  I think about my children when fear creeps into my head.  If anything were ever to happen to those little faces or to my family and there was a need for a transfusion or any kind of blood, I know I have done my part and continue to do my part.  It's a lunch hour, and they will give you all the juice and snacks you want.  So get out there and do this!