Here’s a big IF: If you are well, if you can sit still and relax for about an hour during the week (a few times a year would help), if you can get to a blood bank or bloodmobile, if you want to help others (here’s the kicker: you must weigh more than 110 pounds), if you are OK with this, there is a good chance you can donate a pint of red, flowing blood.
There are restrictions; for the health of the patient receiving, part of that one hour is a few minutes of paperwork, a blood pressure check, and temperature.
After the donation is drawn, walk out after a drink and treat knowing you will be helping someone hug their loved ones again.
Think of the mechanic who keeps your child’s or parents’ car safe. She or he might have been “saved” with a blood donation. That helps your loved ones be safe. Go figure.
You are part of a circle, not walking in one. Keep the circle complete. That circle is the color red and the shape of a drop of blood.
Be well, God bless, and thank you.
This article appears in Aug 18-25, 2011.