34. Giving blood.

For various reasons, I haven't been able to donate blood in over two years. Tonight I was finally able to go to the blood service - just in time for May Day, too. As usual, the experience was painless and satisfying. I don't know about the rest of the world, but the Finnish Red Cross sure knows how to give donors a sugar rush.

Some people are queasy about blood and needles, which is fair enough. A few of my needle-fearing friends have gone to donate blood. Some of them had to give up and realize it's just not worth it; others got over their fear and now donate regularly. No one was forced to donate. On the contrary, nurses are constantly checking if everything is fine and will stop if need be.

I guess what I'm trying to say is: if you're worried the needle will hurt, it won't. It stings, yes, but it doesn't hurt. If you're worried you'll be incapacitated for days after, you won't. As long as you don't over-exert yourself on the day of donating and drink loads of fluids, you should be fine and dandy. If you think you'll be sucked dry of blood, you won't. In Europe the amount of blood collected per donor is roughly 450 ml, about ten per cent of your blood volume. Your body will replenish the volume of blood within 24 hours; it will take a bit longer for your body to make up for the lost iron and nutrients. Chances are your iron levels will actually go up as your body overcompensates.

If you've never donated blood, consider doing it. I'll be holding your hand in spirit if not physically. (Take a friend with you - nerves and sugar rush make for the most hilarious conversations.) It's such a small thing but makes such a huge difference.

http://www.blood.co.uk/ - The National Blood Service for England and North Wales
https://www.givelife.org/ - American Red Cross. It seems there are many local blood services as well. Google "blood service" and your state to find the one closest to you.
http://www.veripalvelu.fi - The Finnish Red Cross