As we wrote last month, we will be hosting a blood drive this Friday, August 27. Everyone who donates blood will receive a gift certificate valid for a free quart of ice cream from Oberweis Ice Cream!

The drive is hosted at Sherman Hospital from 12 pm – 4 pm. It’ll be run by Heartland Blood Centers. To register, click here.

So, did you register? Me neither. I’ve never given blood before, and I’m not sure what to expect. It’s not like there’s literature somewhere that helps me better understand what…

5 Reasons It’s a Good Idea to Donate Blood

Oh, okay. I guess there actually is information.

1. 1 pint of blood can save up to 3 lives.
2. More than 38,000 blood donations are needed every day. Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States needs blood.
3. There are constant shortages on blood. Every single donation helps.
4. It’s a mini-physical for you! Your pulse, blood pressure, body temperature and hemoglobin will all be checked.
5. You’ll finally know what hemoglobin is. Hint: It may or may not be like a city bus.

I get it. Obviously, blood drives are important and just a single pint can save multiple lives. But here’s the thing: I’m not a huge fan of needles. Also, I still don’t really know what to expect because I’ve never done this before. For example, I don’t know my blood type. Am I allowed to eat beforehand?

5 Tips and Things to Expect When You Donate Blood

1. No one is a huge fan of needles. A few tips: Look away, breathe calmly and deeply, and think about something else. Anything else! Hum a favorite song, plan your evening, or even think about the lives that can potentially be saved because of your decision to donate.
2. Donation requirements: Be healthy (this means you feel well and can perform normal activities), be at least 17 years old, and be over 110 lbs in weight. You do NOT need to know your blood type.
3. Things to bring: A donor card, driver’s license, or two other forms of ID. Also, know the names of any medications you’re taking. This will be covered in the mini-physical.
4. The actual donation takes about 8-10 minutes, during which you will be seated comfortably. The process is safe and sterile. After you give, you will be asked to enjoy some juice and cookies in our refreshment area. You can leave and resume your day after 10-15 minutes. Your body will replenish the fluids lost during your donation in approximately 12 to 24 hours.
5. On the day you donate blood, eat a light meal (no fast food!), preferably something high in iron (most grains will be sufficient, as will raisins). Drink as much water as you can, and drinking orange juice can be a good idea. Avoid caffeine.

Avoid caffeine? Are you serious?

You can do it!

Okay, I give! Uncle! I’m signed up to donate on August 27 at 12 pm. I’m looking forward to my cookie.

If you’ve changed your mind and would now like to donate blood as well, click here!