6.11.2009

I saw this quote the other day and thought it definitely applied to my day today. My work building was holding a blood drive for the UCLA Medical Center and I decided that although I was frightened by the idea of donating blood, it would be my thing to do that is new and scary. Images of looking like a member of the Cullen family as they drained my blood danced in my head all week long prepping for the withdrawal.

First came the screening process to make sure I was even able to donate. A prick on the finger and a drop in a tube, would it sink (good) or float (bad)..... how about both?! REALLY? The doctor then had to test my blood again using the fancy electronic meter. She walked back towards me with my results.....

FAIL...my iron level was 0.10 too low to donate. As I turned to leave feeling quite defeated, a nice lady approached me about registering to be a bone marrow donor. After reading the pamphlet, and asking MANY questions, I realized that the idea scared me (a lot) but I have to say that after submitting my form, I left the room feeling great about my decision and the ability to possibly help people who really need it.

So while it might be difficult to find something to do everyday that scares you (looking at my balance in my checking account actually would fit this challenge), I think it is a good philosophy to live by.

(P.S. ~ If you are interested in becoming a donor, click here)

7 comments:

Elizabeth Marie said...

Wow, we have the same fear. I'm so proud of you!

I love helping people, and feel so guilty that I haven't donated blood...this is inspiring me, really. A little pain, to save a life? I need to get over it.

You are amazing, thank you so much!

Courtney said...

What an incredible gift you will bless someone's life with by donating marrow...I truly applaud you!!

amy b.s. said...

my iron level is usually too low too, but the bone marrow opportunity would be awesome. scares the crap out of me too though, but worth it if it ever happens.

Kris said...

You inspire me! I am TERRIFIED of giving blood and each time I see the "blood bus" (gross name) outside my building I think about how I should donate, but I am always too scared.

Next time I'll think about it... maybe. :)

Erin said...

Love that quote and so happy that you at least attempted to donate blood. And love even more that because you were defeated in the blood donating you opted for the marrow donation - awesome! You're an inspiration Miss S

Coug Gal said...

What a great post! I work for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and are constantly hearing stores of people who cannot find matches! You did a wonderful thing by just being typed!

Anonymous said...

way to go, girlie!

i have not given blood in awhile. i have actually never given marrow donation ever... you have inspired me...

happy weekend!

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