NOR DRACULA,
COUNT ORLOFF, OR ANY TWILIGHT VAMPIRE, CREATURE, OR CRYPTID.
I’ve become
a regular blood donor. I’ll admit my reasons are less than altruistic. Each
time, I’m given at least a $20 (sometimes more) discount on my groceries. Due
to these stupid Trump tariffs & being on a fixed income, I really need
this! Like the old lady who peed into the sea every little bit counts! – That
was a common saying when I was growing up.
I’d donate
every week if I could, however I’m limited to every 8 weeks.
And besides,
I’m given a fun gift: a T-shirt, cap, mug, etc. Also, they have a snack station,
and I’m allowed to take anything home. Usually, I choose a couple small bags of
Doritos or cheddar popcorn.
Before donating,
I must answer a long list of embarrassing questions that are also rather
insulting, such as: “Have you ever had sex for money or drugs, or had sex with
someone who has?” However, these are necessary!
A bone graft
would disqualify me. I’ve had several from my dentist. Thankfully enough time
has passed that this no longer counts. My bout with skin cancer also counts but
doesn’t disqualify me.
The process
only hurts for a quick second. Afterward I’m told, “You just lost one pound,
and then I’m shown the bag of blood.”
Once, I
didn’t hold my finger down long enough after the needle was removed and blood
streamed down my arm. Another time, they were training a rookie and didn’t get
enough from one arm and had to stick me the other one, too.
I must wait
15 minutes before leaving, in the event of side effects or me fainting. Neither
has ever happened.
Before departing,
I’m instructed not to lift anything heavy.
Later, I receive
an email stating exactly where my blood was sent, & to someone who needed it.
A WIN, WIN for all!
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