Does anyone else remember those blood drives in high school? For so many of us, it was an excuse to get out of class, lay down for a little while and enjoy some juice and cookies.
But I kept donating blood, even after high school, because I liked knowing I was helping someone, somewhere. I donated when my dad had surgery, since we’re the same blood type. I donated after 9/11. I’d stop by blood drives at work or in my neighborhood because – as the technicians always pointed out – I have terrific veins, so donating was a fast and painless process for me.
But all that changed when I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
Because of the immunosuppressive medications I have to take every day, I am banned from donating blood, per the FDA. I know this makes sense, since you obviously don’t want to potentially harm someone whose immune system may already be low or compromised. But I won’t lie — part of me was disappointed when I first learned that. And it hit me once I had kids, because even though we have the same blood type, I realized I’d never be able to donate to them if – God forbid – they should ever need it.
Since I can’t donate anymore, I wanted to make sure I got the word out that tomorrow – Friday, June 14 – is the 10th anniversary of World Blood Donor Day.
To recognize this important day, Nexcare Bandages has joined forces with the American Red Cross and America’s Blood Centers to launch the 5th annual Nexcare give campaign to help raise awareness about the critical need for blood donation during the summer months.
As part of this campaign, Nexcare is partnering with actress and American Red Cross spokesperson Soleil Moon Frye – yes, Punky Brewster, herself – to encourage all Americans to donate blood on World Blood Donor Day.
C’mon, who can say no to Punky Brewster? Punky Power!
Guess what? For the next two days, you can receive free samples of the 2013 Nexcare give bandage collection by donating blood at participating local American Red Cross or America’s Blood Center locations. You can find your closest blood center by visiting the Nexcare give Facebook page, where you can also share your personal blood donation stories with your friends and the broader give community, pledge to support blood donation and request free Nexcare give bandages by mail.
This year’s Nexcare give limited edition bandage collection is inspired by each of the four seasons because “It’s Always In Season to Give Blood.”
They’re pretty, right?
Anyway, please try to donate if you can. Your gift truly has the power to save lives.
And if you don’t believe me, consider these facts:
- One pint of blood can save up to three lives
- Blood shortages occur most frequently in summer due to vacation schedules
- Someone needs blood every two seconds
- If 1 percent more Americans gave blood, all national blood shortages would disappear for the foreseeable future
- Most Americans will require a blood transfusion at some point in their lives
- Donors can give whole blood up to 6 times a year
Have you ever donated blood before?
Heather @ Kraus House Mom says
I used to donate before I had my first baby, but since having Stella they have advised against it because of my heart disease. My mom has universal blood and she gets called all the time.
Jane - MomGenerations.com says
I get queasy at the sight of blood, and even have to lay down for routine blood tests, so I’ve never donated. But I think people who do are awesome and absolutely heroes.
Jessica says
You’re definitely not alone in feeling that way 🙂 And if it’s any consolation, I didn’t watch at all – I used to keep my eyes closed the entire time! LOL.
Jackie Hennessey says
I’m so thrilled that you’re sharing this here. I will share this all day long too, but unfortunately I tend to get a little queasy when I give blood. I’m like Jane and have to lie down! I’ve been one of “those” people who passes out. I’m good..as long as I’m lying down. 🙂 It’s really embarrassing, but that doesn’t keep me from giving to charities like this in other ways.
Jessica says
Thanks, Jackie! And spreading the word, and helping out in other ways, are JUST as important as actually giving. I’m learning that now that my donating days are over 🙂
Sharon - MomGenerations.com says
Thank you for this reminder of a most important gift…
Sheri says
Just the title of this post made me feel faint.
Mary Larsen says
What a great reminder! I wish I could donate, but I have the worst fear of having my blood taken – I pretty much faint for a simple draw. Pregnancy wasn’t easy for me, just because of those blood tests! However, I do make sure to encourage friends and family of mine to give blood. I used to work the blood drives at school, and was happy that I was able to help contribute that way! Hopefully my son has a better stomach than I do – because he has the same blood type as I – O negative!
Chelley / AisForAdelaide says
I will def share!! I have a lot of tattoos (all done in licensed shops by the best in the state) and so many people think that means I cannot donate, but I CAN and DO!
Great post!
Kristin Wheeler (Mama Luvs Books) says
Thanks for sharing! I will pass this post along tomorrow to spread the word!