The holidays are over, we are all a bit more plump from the overeating and over-imbibing and we’ve all most likely resolved to lead a healthier lifestyle in some way, shape or form. Whether this means healthy eating, increased exercise or creating cerebral mindfulness, we are all striving to be … better.
However, for many, getting healthy is extremely difficult. People who are in the midst of treatment for various cancers, premature babies, patients with sickle-cell and people who have fallen victim to tragic accidents all struggle with regaining and maintaining good health.
But, there is volunteer work you can do (sitting or laying down!) to directly and positively impact people’s lives.
Give blood.
In the winter months, the blood supply falls dangerously low which is why January has been designated as National Blood Donor Month. According to the American Red Cross approximately 38% of the population is able to donate blood and platelets but less than 10% of the population does. That means the demand for blood dangerously comes close to outweighing the supply of blood.
I know giving blood can be scary/not convenient/at the bottom of your to-do list. But imagine you are summoned to the hospital and your loved one is uncontrollably bleeding, yet there is nothing available for a successful transfusion … a completely unnecessary tragedy.
A donation YOU made can make a different in someone’s life.
Still not sure giving blood is for you? I’ve debunked the most common reasons for not giving blood below…
I don’t like needles.
I get it. And I get that some people have an unnatural and intense fear of needles making it virtually impossible without overdosing on Xanax. But, really, does anyone LIKE needles? No one jumps up and down and says “I’ve got a fever, and the only prescription is more needles!” The reality is that the discomfort of cancer, a traumatic accident or sickle cell anemia far outweighs the discomfort of the needle used to donate blood. It’s easy to let our personal fears overshadow the impact of blood donation but visualizing that itty bitty baby, that chronically ill kiddo or that loved mommy or daddy in need will help you put the big girl undies on, I promise!
I don’t have time.
In this day and age of kids in school, after school activities, making dinner, and doing homework it is hard to carve out time for something out of our daily schedule and routine. But, many blood drives have babysitting services where you get to sit in peace and use the restroom BY YOURSELF if you want. It’s an unconventional idea but host your next mom’s group at a blood drive! (1) It’s free (2) someone else will watch your kids for an hour (3) you can chat with your friends while you give blood and (4) Sit for 15 minutes afterward and drink juice, eat cupcakes and donuts. Sounds like a perfect way to spend a rainy morning!
I am sick or I don’t want to get sick.
To keep the blood supply safe, there are restrictions on who can donate blood. For a full list of conditions that are safe and acceptable to donate blood, please check out the Red Cross website. Many common illnesses and ailments will not prevent a person from donating once they return to health. In the same vein (like what I did there?), donating blood is completely safe. All needles are discarded after use and you cannot catch AIDS, hepatitis or any other infectious diseases by donating blood.
I don’t know when or where they are having blood drives.
Given, finding a blood drive is not as easy as finding a Chick-Fil-A but it is very easy to find a convenient location and you can even sign up online. Simply visit the American Red Cross website, type in your zip code and browse the closest drives to you with available times for donations. It really is that simple!
It’s so easy to get caught up in our daily lives and forget about those with basic, pressing needs. However, one hour of your time can help up to three people. It doesn’t have to be stressful, painful or time consuming. Giving blood and platelets is a great way to make a direct impact on our community. Help save a life today.
Have you given blood or platelets? Share your experience in comments below.
