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Harringay, Haringey - So Good they Spelt it Twice!

Giving Blood

I received an email today about a campaign to increase the number of Blood Donors in the UK, apparently they are struggling to get enough donations.

I have always said I would do it, and my pathological fear of needles has always got in the way, but this time I will try to get over it!

http://www.blood.co.uk/

From the email I just got...

"We’ve launched a campaign to recruit 100 thousand donors in 100 days: a campaign we hope you might support. Blood donation is straightforward and absolutely essential to save the lives of thousands of people every year. You can become a blood donor at the web site http://www.blood.co.uk/  or by calling us on 0300 123 23 23." 

Tags for Forum Posts: blood donations, giving blood

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by rhi on February 7, 2013 at 22:32
I donate at the Donor Centre on Margaret Street near Oxford Circus. It's a permanent clinic and you can make an appointment to donate by phone or online.
Permalink Reply by anna g on February 8, 2013 at 17:44

Hi Justin, 

I'm going to go for a positive post to counteract all the 'bad blood' (ho ho!) below ;)

I'd advise letting the 1st Donor Carer know (the person you speak to when they check your Iron levels in a little booth or room) that you're worried about needles but that you really want to conquer your fear. 

I know this may not help, and the fear isn't pain related, but honestly the only pain is the 'scratch' as they insert the needle.  

My friend came with me to watch and observe once, the second time had to stop as she really didn't like it, but then actually donated the 3rd time with no problem!  Don't be embarrassed if you're not sure about going through with it.. but of course if you do force yourself, you'll feel amazing for days/weeks afterwards thinking about who you might have helped! :)

Best of luck with it. 

Permalink Reply by pamish on February 8, 2013 at 18:57

It does feel good, I always reckon I can sin for a solid fortnight afterwards to balance things out.

Permalink Reply by Justin Guest on February 11, 2013 at 13:41

Thanks Anna! Appreciate the thought. I have actually managed to make it twice, but they have never taken anything as I had had a cold too recently.... Next time (third time lucky).

3dabemynv2wykPermalink Reply by 3dabemynv2wyk on February 9, 2013 at 11:10

Thanks for this reminder. I'd been planning to give blood but had to wait until at least a year after giving birth. I will make enquiries now he's almost 2! 

Permalink Reply by Andy Newman on February 10, 2013 at 13:33
Can I also say thanks for posting this.
I used to give blood over in Crouch End and found it difficult to get back home so I stopped. Knowing there is a local location now has really helped and have booked myself into St John Vianney for June 21st. I would not have done this with out this post, I have semi rare blood also so wanted to continue but needed that little kick.

Thanks Andy
Permalink Reply by Justin Guest on February 11, 2013 at 13:40

Andy. Glad I did now, I was not sure at first as there are a few negative comments, I guess some folks have not had a great experience, which is a crying shame. The thing that prompted me was that I figured if I was smashed up and needed help I would hope it were there and to a degree I am also responsible for it being there. I also liked Pam's comment about sinning for a solid fortnight!

Permalink Reply by Maddy on February 15, 2013 at 14:32

As someone who would now be dead if I hadn't had 6 pints of other peoples' blood, I want to thank everyone who makes the effort!

Permalink Reply by Bridget Hunt on February 14, 2013 at 10:29

I gave my 107th pint last week!  I go to the West End Donor Centre. I've been told by the nurses that a really good way to increase your iron (they won't take it if it's low) is to eat chocolate and drink red wine the night before donation... My blood is given only to neonatals as it's rare. So proud!!:

Permalink Reply by Justin Guest on February 15, 2013 at 9:39

107 pints... You must be a dream donor. I now have my first appointment in  a couple of weeks time up on Wood Green Road!

Permalink Reply by Bridget Hunt on February 15, 2013 at 9:52

You'll be fine and, once you realise you're fine, tell all your friends, neighbours, people you work with etc etc - the blood transfusion stocks are NEVER full, alas.

Permalink Reply by Abi on February 15, 2013 at 10:45

I really wish I could - I'm O Negative which is one of the most useful types. It bugs me in a way that they insist on taking a set amount per person as I have a small build and am 5 foot tall, so will probably never reach the target weight of 8.5 stone required to donate. Wonder if this will ever change! In my case I also have some other factors that make them turn me away (unnecessarily) but the weight thing should be more flexible I think.

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