My first donation was in high school, grade 12, and I've never looked back. I donated whole blood for years, graduating to platelets. For decades, my commitment was every two weeks, at Bay and College in Toronto.
Due to geographical relocation, I'm now involved with plasma. Once a week, I visit the Vaughan location, where everyone is super duper accommodating, knowledgeable and friendly.
Now. My reason as to why I donate...
It began in grade 12. Boys could donate, no problem. Girls, not until grade 13, unless they provided written and signed permission, from their parents. If a boy could do it, so could I. Thank you, Mom and Dad.
As I got older, I began realizing how important donations really were. Every donation helps save a life, in some way or other.
Whole blood, the basis of all donations. Platelets, a component essential for many with leukemia, amongst other diseases.
Plasma, for burns as well as the manufacture of medication.
I believe that if every able person in Canada donated at least once a year, there'd be an overflow of the precious gift of life.
The best part? It replenishes. I always think of it as paying forward. I think, "what if someone in my family, any of my friends, or even me, were in need of any one of the blood products?" It'd be a relief for me to know that there is ample product donated by others, who hopefully think as I do and believe in my vision.
Just a wee bit of your time, an honest desire to help any person in need, a belief in your ability to help, and a commitment.
Wouldn't you want an ample supply of life-giving serum ready at the take for your loved ones? So would someone else's loved ones.
Be that person. You know it's in you to give. So roll up your sleeve and flow.
And it's more than just a cuppa java and cookies. You meet new people, rekindle old friendships and can feel good about yourself for having stretched out your arms, in anticipation of knowing you can help someone and their family.
I'm blessed with the opportunity to give. I'm counting down to #500. My next give? # 427
Thank you, Canadian Blood Services.
