Twenty some years ago I received a blood transfusion before a medical procedure, so yesterday I finally returned the favor and made a blood donation to the Red Cross.
As some of you may know, I have anxiety issues, so this was a day of facing my fear, (no not of the needles, I've had plenty of samples drawn over the years). They give first time donors this huge packet of questions, and possible complications, so my mind starts reeling! What if I develop one of those rare but possible side effects, what if , what if, what if? I made it through the interview and was deemed donor-worthy.
Now onto the odd donor chair/bed thingy. I'm grateful to one of my daughter's friend's parents for talking to me for the first couple of minutes to help distract me, that helped a LOT! When the fellow, (vampire, hahaha, no he was a super nice guy), started asking me if I was feeling dizzy, or getting warm, etc., I told him about my anxiety, and that it's probably best not to tell me a symptom, or I will develop it! He was very patient and let me stay there an extra couple of minutes, because I did not want to pass out or something stupid!
Next, I made my way over to the juice and bags of cookies! Found a bag with Ernie Keebler's smiling face, sat there chatting, ( to another lady I know, not Ernie), and munching for the required 10 to 15 minutes to ensure I was recovering. Another gal I know walked me to the door to ease my worried mind, and my husband had the car all warmed up for me when I finally got back to him. Whew!
I missed my nap, so it wasn't a very pleasant evening, as I was still concerned about developing complications. I drank my fluids, watched some comedies, and read a book until bedtime finally arrived, and surprise I woke up this morning! Life is good, and I feel that I've repaid my debt. I don't know if I'll ever muster up the nerve to donate again, but I feel accomplished to have managed this time.
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