If you can't give cash give blood

[topwaystosave]

There is an urgent need for blood right now and it cost you nothing to help others. Of course not all people can give blood, but it cost nothing and can help save a life. It's relatively painless and takes usually less than an hour depending on the line.

[mishi07]

I did once, for an aunt of a close friend who needed blood after a major operation. I've been donating blood every year since then.

(The giant needle hurts the first time but is something that can get used to.)

[GrimJack]

I also used to do 'blood apheresis' but they found some wacky stuff in my blood so I can't donate anymore. Why not go the whole route and get on the bone-marrow list?

[esterdsl]

A blood donation truly is a “gift of life” that a healthy individual can give to others in their community who are sick or injured.

[MonkeyMama]

Originally Posted by GrimJack

I also used to do 'blood apheresis' but they found some wacky stuff in my blood so I can't donate anymore. Why not go the whole route and get on the bone-marrow list?

Um, bone marrow donation is in a different realm from giving blood. A much bigger commitment.

[MonkeyMama]

Agreed. Since I Don't have as much time to volunteer as I usually do (I have always been more of a *give time* than *give money* kind of donor), I am making an effort to give blood more regularly. It is so easy/fast, but a real meaningful way to help people. Of course, I find it very easy to give blood. My spouse couldn't if he wanted to - his veins can't handle the needles. So I feel an extra motivation since I know so many people who can't give blood for various reasons.

The first time I ever gave blood was to myself (storing blood for a surgery when I Was 16), but got me introduced to the process and realizing I could give blood to others, too.

[dawnwes]

Unfortunately, I cannot donate blood. I can certainly do other things though.

I wonder if I am even eligible to get on the bone marrow list? Is there a criteria somewhere of who can and who can't donate bone marrow?

Dawn

[mrpaseo]

I gave this week A few years back I gave Plasma for three months (Once a week). I have been receiving the Anthrax vaccination and they wanted Plasma that has the antibodies in it. I volunteered (Actually they paid me for the Plasma but would have done it anyway).

I am going to try to give as often as possible. I'm not sure how often that is.

Ray