I used to give blood on a regular basis, before they decided that I couldn't. I have NF, which altough doesn't affect the blood, it became one of the can't donate conditions. (although you can contest it, by the time I knew this, I was exhausted all the time.)
Back then you just used to turn up at a session and wait your turn. You could pop your head around the door, see that the queue was huge and either sit and wait or come back later.
Used to love me in busy seesions because I have special blood - has an antibody which stops coagulation - used a lot in open heart surgery, and collected into a special bag. I would get to the bed, and the nurses would then have to change the bag.
Our local sessions are pretty efficient, especially if you have an appointment, although they do sometimes run late. As a regular donor I have got to know the team, they are a very friendly and cheerful crew.
------------- DS-There's more to life than football!!!
I've never had to wait very long, but unless you make an appointment in advance it's very difficult to be fitted in. Although this can be inconvenient, it must be a sign that there is no lack of donors. However, each time I go there seems to be another contra-indication to donating - the list of "dodgy" countries visited grows ever longer, including seemingly innoccuous places like North Italy, as does the list of prohibited medical or cosmetic procedures. However, I know there is a very good reason for this, but it does make me wonder if there will come a time when hardly anyone qualifies as a donor!
------------- Il vaut mieux vivre ses reves que rever sa vie
Going Thursday, stupidly made my normal appointment at 1630 last time. Forgot I would be retired!
I was going to change it, but my wife said she'll meet me afterwards and we'll go out for evening meal!
They have opened several new restaurants in Telford centre so will try one!
------------- DS-There's more to life than football!!!
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Blood donation
