First-Time Donor.
Today was the first time I have ever donated blood of my over 23 year lifespan. You're first thought was probably: "Matt, you're such a giver. I'm surprised that you haven't done it years ago like in high school." While many of my friends publicized their free donuts and coffee from Dunkin Donuts (I'm drinking Dunkin!) for giving blood, I was left in the corner weeping due to the fact that I couldn't donate blood due to my weight. Throughout my life, I have had trouble with my weight; I would eat and eat and yet I would still be as skinny as I was. It wasn't until about my sophomore year at UConn (Yes, in college not high school) when I reached the weight requirement of 110 pounds to donate blood.
So why today of all days to begin giving blood? I've always wanted to donate blood since high school (envious of those who could in high school) but just didn't take the plunge from not knowing what to expect, finding a convenient time and place, and of course (and most significantly) not being eligible due to my petite weight. I received an email about the Red Cross coming to Raytheon to get blood from donors so it was in the back of my head. Then, I see a status on Facebook (during lunch) about a friend from high school stating "Getting your finger pricked is by far the worst part of giving blood. But at least I saved three lives today!". After reading that, I was convinced and took the dive.
Other factors that motivated me:
1. The sticker: This may be one of the most significant reasons. Stickers are subliminally connected to doing important things like voting, doing good deeds, and of course getting A's in school.
2. It could possibly save lives.
3. I'm a giver, everyone knows that. What is better to give than life? And it's $Free.99! And what better time to give than this holiday (Festivus) season?
4. It's a valid excuse to be lazy since you're told not to do any strenuous activities.
5. Free food and drinks. I love it but the woman forced me to keep on drinking orange drink... Maybe I should have drank each can slower...
6. Discover blood type. This one has been haunting me for years and years; Being left out of the blood-type conversations were the worst. Good thing I'll get my donor card with my blood-type in about 6 weeks! Woot!
7. I thought I would get a squeeze ball but sadly I did not...
And for those who may be hesitant about giving blood, Just do it! (-Nike). It's basically two pinches and those who have a sister (like me) are basically immune from pinches. So go out there and donate blood (assuming you meet the safety criteria).
Woah! Another "first" for me! And this may have started a tradition at the same time!