Be A Donor
Growing up I have given my share (and I'm sure about 10 people's share of blood). I never thought that I could be a blood donor because I've always known that there was something wrong with me and since we didn't know what it was I couldn't expose others to it. But on that awesome day in May 2003 when we found out about my IRAK 4 gene mutation I also found out that my defect has nothing to do with my blood and I could donate whenever I wanted.
Over the years I couldn't even guesstimate how much blood I have given toward research. But once I found out that I could be a donor I went and found a Red Cross bus and wanted to donate. I filled out all the forms, got stuck with a huge needle and then got served snacks (I think that's everyone's favorite part). But honestly this was so much different than any other time that I gave blood. This time I knew that I could be helping someone else. In the past when I gave blood I was doing it for me, doing it for science, helping doctors figure out things.....which I will gladly continue to do for the rest of my life. But this time I knew that this could go to someone who needs help in life. It's helping my fellow brother.
Something I think most of us are guilty of is taking our health for granted....yes even me. But there are times when my life has been tested time and time again and I know what it's like not to be the healthy one. I know what it's like to be dependent on medicine, doctors, and science (because I'm always dependent on God). And there have been times when I needed blood and luckily someone was selfless enough to donate their healthy bodies and time to help someone like me who was in need.
And on this last visit to the NIH they didn't take any research blood (which NEVER happens, but it was a spur of the moment trip) and since I'm healthy I visited their blood bank to donate! It honestly just gives you a great feeling knowing that you are helping someone else! You can donate every 56 days, so I'm going to try to donate every two months! So I would like to challenge you! How many times can you donate this year and how many will you?? It only takes about an hour of your time but what's an hour when it could help save a life?? Will you join me??