Time to Give Blood Again

I marked my calendar, actually Helaine kept track, but today is the day that I can donate again. I am proud that I gave 5 pints last year. Ultimately you can give 6 because you have to wait 8 weeks. (I suppose you could squeeze 7 in one year if you start the first week of January and are very disciplined). I actually gave last December up on Long Island. It was a double donation of red blood cells instead of a whole pint of blood. So instead of 8 weeks, I had to wait 16 weeks.

I read a statistic that said only 5% of those who are eligible to donate blood actually donate. That is a pathetically low number. So, I implore you to find a donation center or blood drive and roll up your sleeve and take one for the team.

One final thought, I am also on the Bone Marrow Donor list. I often wonder, why doesn't every blood donation also seek a sample for the Bone Marrow Donor list? This has to be one of the prime target audiences...I just don't get it.