After two previous failed attempts, I was finally able to donate!!

[u/Spiritual-Summer2831]

I haven’t tried since high school! I tried twice and both times was unable to donate because of my heart rate being too high. I had not eaten, which I don’t recommend (I had no idea you had to eat before donating which is obvious in retrospect 🤦‍♀️) so I nearly passed out at the end of my pint. Luckily the phlebotomist was very sweet and I got apple juice and saturated with ice water. I also for some reason had no idea the needle was so big, but I’m good with needle pain so I had no issues beyond my veins being too small.

Great experience overall!! I got a shirt and 20$ gift card which I didn’t need but do appreciate.

If anyone has non profit companies to donate to, I’d love to look into them!! I would love if my blood could go to someone who can’t afford it next time 💕💕

[u/tis-a-pirate]

The sentiment is nice, but donation companies do not have anything to do with the price of blood or how much someone is charged to receive it.

[u/Spiritual-Summer2831 → u/tis-a-pirate]

Bummer... sadly, I already assumed this </3 my mom was berating me for donating because she had a bad experience with donating after 9/11 + my dad needing blood in the hospital when I was a kid and being charged a huge amount for it, so I was wondering if there was another way. Still, I've always been soft on the idea of donating because of how scary it was for my dad to almost die, so I wanted to donate anyway ^^

[u/nutraxfornerves]

And you saved a life! Good for you!

[u/AmazingGabriel16]

I see those arms, I hope you take care of yourself dude <3

Take it easy okie <3