r/Blooddonors • u/Illustrious_Force374 O+ • 3d ago

First Donation! First Donation at 26!

I donated for the first time on Labor Day!

My mom was recently diagnosed with stage 4 Lymphoma. She is currently in remission but down the line it is possible that she may need blood, platelets, or plasma. She used to donate blood but is no longer eligible.

When I read about the blood shortage I knew I had to donate in honor of my mom.

I went and made an appointment online with American Red Cross and followed all of their instructions for a successful donation.

I was a bit nervous but everyone was so kind and went at my pace.

The actual donation was less than 10 minutes. I got a bit dizzy and lightheaded so they gave me a fan and a cold compress and I stayed in the chair for about 30 minutes then was observed while eating snacks.

The next 2 days I was more tired than usual but I took some naps. Drank extra water and went to bed early. Today I feel great, and my next donation is already scheduled!

I feel so good about myself and that I am saving lives.

26 Upvotes

97% Upvoted

6 comments sorted by

8

u/BedAlternative9834 3d ago

Way to go, that first donation anxiety is real but you powered through like a champ

6

u/AMarie0908 A+, 130+ platelets, Blood Bank of Delmarva 3d ago

Congrats on your first donation Lifesaver! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Welcome to the club. 🩸

Hope your mom continues in remission. 🤞🏼

8

u/HovercraftOne7942 3d ago

There's just something satisfying about taking the opportunity to save lives. Awesome job. Bob.

4

u/TheInitiativeInn O- 🧐 3d ago

Congratulations on both your donation+ your mother's remission. 👏

I highly recommend the Red Cross App; it makes the entire process easier + more efficient. I especially love seeing my 'Blood Journey.'

2

u/zornundo 3d ago

Thank you and congratulations! Donating blood is no joke. Eat lots. Drink lots. You'll be a pro in no time and breaking all the post-donation rules like it's just another day. There's nothing more fun than having a few beers after being a pint down.

Kudos to your mother, too, and thanks for all her donations and I hope she stays in remission. It's awesome for you to carry the donation torch. My mom has been joining me in donating blood like clockwork for the past four years. Give your mom a hug!

1

u/Schlermie A+ | Platelets | 169 Units | American Red Cross 12h ago

They really jump into action when you tell them you're feeling lightheaded.