Australian Red Cross Blood Service

I was encouraged to donate blood after a request from a friend whose baby needed 4 blood transfusions when he was brand new. He’s just turned one year old and is a happy, healthy little boy. I used to hate getting shots and the sight of needles, but I overcame the fear knowing that my blood and time saves 3 lives each time! Use the #save3lives to support the Red Cross! The facility is great. Parking for donors, clean, bright building and best of all, really friendly, appreciative staff. You fill out a short form and then you have an interview with a nurse. After that, you’re taken into a large, open room with chairs with people donating blood. It’s a bit like a dentist chair, it goes up and down. The nurses are too good, explaining everything as they go. There is a small sting when the needle goes in (I didn’t look) but just keep thinking about all of those people that need that blood. You’re given a squeezy ball to squeeze every once in a while to keep the blood flowing. It’s all over in 5 or 6 minutes. THEN, you’re encouraged to wait around to make sure you’re feeling well and there’s a whole kitchenette full of drinks and snacks. I chose salt and vinegar chips, bega cheese slice and a kit kat. Donate blood, friends!