Almost 60 years ago I had girlfriend whose brother was a hemophiliac with factor VIII deficiency. She was donating regular for him and my male ego was challenged. Anything she can do, I can do! So I became a blood donor and have now donated over 450 times.
I got into friendly competition with my father, but would never catch him. He was donating while working in a hospital in England during WWII. His donations total was out of my league.
For many years I was donating platelets, but am back to whole blood. I miss watching movies while donating, but still enjoy the cookies and friendly staff at the clinic on Oak Street. I tell them I only come in because they make such a good martini with two olives, just the way I like them.
Donating blood is one of the most important fulfilling volunteer opportunities we have, and I'm grateful for the chance to help.
