Giving Blood

Whilst in Hervey Bay I decided that I would have a go at giving blood. Before having kids I was afraid of needles and therefore giving blood was never on my radar. After having kids you need to have blood taken for tests, I also had to have needles with each of my kids to get induced. After having Alexander I started to think that I'm not as afraid of needles as I thought. James had been giving blood for a while so it was also on my mind. Also, every time I had blood taken, I was told that I had good veins for it which made me think that I should try to give blood. When I was down to feeding once with Alexander James asked when he was donating blood if you could donate blood when you are breastfeeding. They said not in the first year but up to you when the child is regularly having solid food. I decided to wait until Alexander wasn't having breastmilk anymore. Once he had finished feeding I then noticed that I don't really have child free time to be able to give blood. 

Anyway, when in Hervey Bay, I realised that I had the time to go and give blood, to be child free so it could take as long as it needed to be. So I booked. I was nervous, I was worried that I might faint (Mum has fainted when she did it) but I was keen to give it a go. The interview was fine and the nurse (Deb) was lovely. She was very chatty, explained lots and was very kind. My blood was taken well and she agreed that my veins are very good to take blood. 

Once the process was done I didn't faint, didn't feel sick or odd. I went and sat on the couch and enjoyed a milkshake, sausage roll and some other snacks while I waited to make sure I was all good. 

Winner! I couldn't believe that there is such a small percentage of people who actually give blood. I am keen to do it more (well, when I can) and to even give plasma but Deb suggested that I do whole blood for a few more goes just to make sure that I am fine with donating. The other challenge will be finding child free time here but I guess I will be able to make it work.