Friday, February 20, 2009

Donating for the Red Cross

Thursday night Seth, Denny and I attended a volunteer appreciation chili supper. It was sponsored by the Red Cross for donating blood platelets. I donate on a regular basis and I was very inspired by the supper. I saw lots of people I know. Several from Boy scouts, 4-H, and church. Amazing isn't it that a lot of the people who volunteer their time for these organizations also are volunteers for the red cross. For being a first time donor in 2008 I received a t-shirt, a certificate and a red cross box full of candy. Others that have donated at certain levels got plaques, the one that has donated 624 times received a gift. I really enjoy donating the platelets. The people are always so happy when you come in and you feel really appreciated. At this supper they had people who have been on the receiving end talk about their experience and need for platelets and it brought tears to your eyes to hear their stories and realize that you really are needed. Platelets only last 5 days so they need lots of donors and often. I also like it that I can do something to help someone but I can schedule it as my own schedule allows, not have to attend meetings, or work closely with other people. I don't mind working with people but sometimes it seems like you work hard and are not very productive. When I go to give platelets they ask me,"How many lives do you want to save today" and I have to decide if I will give a single, double or a triple bag.

2 comments:

  1. Julie,
    I really admire you for donating a part of yourself in such a meaningful way. I had to give a vial of blood for a medical test and that was bad - to do it voluntarily is something!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Congratulations for donating all that blood and platelets. You are truly giving a gift from yourself.

    ReplyDelete