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Blood donors: I gave birth to her, Her life is in your hands.

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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 04:49 AM
Original message
Blood donors: I gave birth to her, Her life is in your hands.
How can I ever thank you...
:loveya:




And the lives of others are in her hands.



peace & love to all...
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Pierre.Smooth Donating Member (215 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 04:58 AM
Response to Original message
1. Good Thread.
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 11:16 AM
Response to Reply #1
3. Thank you, Pierre...
wherever you are....you sure had fun.

May you rest in peace~
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Name removed Donating Member (0 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jan-20-09 04:32 AM
Response to Reply #3
55. Deleted message
Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.
 
taterguy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 05:58 AM
Response to Original message
2. You can get the Red Cross to stop calling
I give about three times a year. But every time my eight weeks is up I start getting deluged with calls from those folks.
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Dyedinthewoolliberal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 11:30 AM
Response to Reply #2
4. Why not give more?
I'm a regular blood donor and where I live I can schedule the appointment. You are eligible to give every 56 days. That way I don't feel caught off guard by the request, it's good for men to donate on a regular basis (eliminates excess iron for one) and the blood banks need the blood. When I'm having the juice and cookies, I re-schedule the next one :) Com'e on, it's easy to donate on a more regular basis! :bounce:
:shrug:
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JustABozoOnThisBus Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 11:48 AM
Response to Reply #4
5. I just enjoy the juice and cookies ...
Scheduling another donation would just detract from that.

Red Cross has me on speed-dial, I know I'll get a call in 50-some days.

I don't know why they want it. By now, all my iron has turned to rust.

:hi:
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 12:32 PM
Response to Reply #5
8. Happy that you love juice and cookies....
There's no better way to get free goodies :hug:
JustABozoOnThisBus, thank you for being part of the circle of love...

You're a lifeline ....a loveline...a beautiful soul with a heart of gold. I'm sure a little rust is okay;)

:loveya:

Thank you from Nicki, me, and all who depend on you...


peace~
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FloridaJudy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 12:44 PM
Response to Reply #5
9. And the free T-shirt! eom
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 01:14 PM
Response to Reply #9
14. T-shirt? : )
I didn't know that, either! I don't know how they can afford to give T-shirts...
FloridaJudy...yet another beautiful soul...:hug:
Hearing from the givers is really helping me today....
Heartfelt thanks for lifting my spirits...and saving lives....
The need is so great...
When you walk out the door you never know who you've helped..just that you did.
I'm overwhelmed...and in awe of the beautiful people...
Thank you for being beautiful..

:loveya:

peace~
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FloridaJudy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 01:27 PM
Response to Reply #14
17. The T-shirts are usually donated
By local businesses. They have a blurb in front for the blood bank, and somebody's logo on the back.

Best deal I ever got was a key chain. It had a donor ID number (nothing that could be traced to you by anyone else) on it, and the address of the local blood bank. If anyone ever found your keys, they could stick them in the mail, and the blood bank would call you to come retrieve them. Nifty service - I had need of it a few times, being hopelessly absent-minded. They haven't done this for years, alas!
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Oeditpus Rex Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 06:29 PM
Response to Reply #17
38. I once got a T-shirt, a coffee mug fulla Hershey's Kisses
and somethin' else.

Wasn't from the Red Cross, though, but another blood bank. They felt kinda bad about their dude stickin' the needle completely through my vein. :)



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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Jan-24-09 09:11 AM
Response to Reply #38
60. Here's another....

I just happen to carry them around:o

Thank you, Oeditpus Rex, for giving the gift of life...
It means the world to me....:hug:
May your life be filled with hugs and kisses....
:loveya:


peace~
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JustABozoOnThisBus Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jan-20-09 05:33 AM
Response to Reply #9
56. No T-shirt, but I got an Amer Red Cross baseball cap once!
Proudly displayed on my dashboard!

:hi:
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 12:12 PM
Response to Reply #4
7. Dyedinthewoolliberal...you're golden
You've touched my heart on this worrisome morning. So many depend on your gift of love...
And you've educated me...I never knew that donating blood could be beneficial for the donor! Do you know how happy that makes me feel? :hug: Now I'll have to learn a bit more about that from my Nicki...she never mentioned it. I'm sure she didn't know this years ago, but she must know now.

I was only able to donate once in my life...many years ago. The next time I went, I was borderline anemic, and they had to refuse me....I sat in my car and cried. Since then, I don't even try because I don't meet the weight requirement. Maybe someday I'll put on some pounds...it just hasn't happened for me.

I wish you the yummiest of cookies and the juiciest of juices forever...:hug:
You made my day. Heartfelt thanks for taking the time, and for caring...
:loveya:

peace~
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Dyedinthewoolliberal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:23 PM
Response to Reply #7
22. Why that's the nicest thing anyone's
Edited on Mon Jan-19-09 02:23 PM by Dyedinthewoolliberal
typed at me all day! :)
In fact, only 5% of those eligible to give blood do so. Therefore you needent worry about not being able to give. There are many more of us who can without any problems whatsoever. It's just finding and convincing them that 30 minutes or so every 56 days isn't a lot to ask and the payoff is huge! :bounce:
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 11:48 AM
Response to Reply #2
6. taterguy, I have a feeling the calls don't really bother you : )
You're a gift to humanity...I know people who donate blood, but not on a regular basis. Everyone does what they can. I was up all night worried about my daughter, knowing that she had to see her oncologist/hematologist this morning. I was so sad that I only posted her photos with no explanation.
Post and run.

She has Chronic ITP, an autoimmune disease that destroys her blood platelets.
It's an idiopathic disease...she was diagnosed when she was about twenty...she's now thirty-seven. I've spent many days and nights just holding her in her hospital bed through the years.

She lives life to the fullest...and brings joy to all who know her. She decided to become a nurse after all the years of care....she's been an RN for only a little over a year....She's giving back. I'm so proud of her.
She's very active, refuses to let her disease run her life..and has two beautiful boys and a foster child.

I'm also writing our background for others who may read this. I just posted and left.

taterguy, I know how high on life you feel after you give of yourself...
I can't donate...so in behalf of all the lives you've touched and saved...I thank you.

Thank you for being you...:hug:

:loveya:

peace~
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Midlodemocrat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 12:47 PM
Response to Reply #6
10. Your daughter is beautiful. I can't donate either, and I appreciate
your post to call others to do so. I used to donate before I got sick. It truly is a wonderful feeling. Now TM donates. (well, when she weighs over 110 pounds, that is. :eyes: )
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 01:44 PM
Response to Reply #10
18. I hear you....
It's hard not being able to donate...:hug:
But you can carry that wonderful feeling with you...that's all I can do.
And also, your heart is there...
Sending love to you and your 'little' TM....:loveya:

Thank you for saying my daughter is beautiful...
When I took that picture it was the first time I visited her at work. She had a 'key emergency' with the kiddies at home, so I grabbed my camera on my way out the door. I was crying tears of joy seeing my baby 'being a nurse'...
I wanted the photo..."Oh, MOM! This is so embarrassing!"
The other nurses were cracking up, and also took this picture for me:

I feel a bit silly posting all the pics, but am so very emotional today...:blush:
And the above was a day of joy and pride that I'll never forget...
Midlodemocrat....Thank you for joining the circle of love with TM...

:grouphug:
:loveya:
peace~
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auntAgonist Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 03:07 PM
Response to Reply #6
28. Dystopian I was diagnosed with ITP
many years ago. All of the medication didn't work and my hema/oncologist referred me to a surgeon. They removed my spleen and I've been fine since. Is that an option for her ?
The only thing that has happened since my splenectomy is that NOW I have too high a platelet count. It's not in the danger zone but does have to be monitored. I take aspirin daily which is something I could never do when I had ITP.


She is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

I'm not able to give blood :( I have IDA iron deficient anemia.
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 09:51 PM
Response to Reply #28
47. Thank you for sharing your story, auntAgonist
I've only met one other person with ITP, and it was a nurse that took care of Nicki many years ago. I'm so happy to hear that the splenectomy worked for you! :hug: Nicki had a splenectomy, also. It was about 12 years ago, and we knew there was a 50/50 chance of a cure.....sadly, not for her. I didn't know that a cure could result in too many platelets, though. I hope that you're feeling well...and that this is just something to keep an eye on. Sounds like you were in very good hands..

Thank you for saying she's beautiful..you are, too.:-)
I'm sorry that you have the anemia:hug:but please, no sad face for not being able to donate. Your heart is there.

We know that there are many ways to pay forward...

So nice to hear from someone who has been though it, and is now fine...
Take care, auntAgonist
:loveya:

peace~
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latebloomer Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 08:22 PM
Response to Reply #6
41. would a stem-cell transplant work for her?
My niece was born with a condition where she couldn't produce red cells,and she needed transfusions every month at least,which was starting to cause liver issues. She had a transplant and is doing very well 4 years later.

I am also a 13-month survivor of a transplant to cure my leukemia.

It can be a rocky road and you might not want to do it unless the condition is very serious- e.g., life-threatening- but how amazing when it works!

Yes, bless all those who donate blood, stem cells or bone marrow!
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TK421 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 12:50 PM
Response to Original message
11. My friend convinced me to donate...I'll be going on the 26th.
I didn't want to...I can't stand needles. Plus, the last time I donated I got totally lightheaded walking into the elevator, I stumbled and fell. ( they did NOT offer juice and cookies ) I will be certain I get juice and cookies this time
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:08 PM
Response to Reply #11
19. TK421, heartfelt thanks to you and your awesome friend...
My ex SO was/is a beautiful soul...(still my best friend) He was so horrified of needles that he just could not do it. He felt terrible about it, but the fear was too great...
The fact that you can't stand needles, yet are still doing it speaks volumes:hug:

I'm sorry that your first experience wasn't what it should have been:-( I recall being checked on constantly. They made certain that I could stand and walk...told me to take as much time as I needed. I was pampered, as were all the others...I'm only familiar with Red Cross...was it a different blood drive? I'm certain that my vitals were checked frequently...it was so long ago it's a hazy memory.

When giving the gift of life...you need to be handled with care...you are precious.
I really need to know how things go on the 26th...please let us all know.
I want you to feel that joy in your heart without losing your balance...:hug:
Heartfelt thanks for caring...
Thank you for being you...

:loveya:

peace~
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TK421 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:24 PM
Response to Reply #19
23. I'm pretty sure it was Red Cross...now, I don't recall ( it was in 2003 ) )
and after having this discussion with people here at work, I very well may have had a low iron count at the time...causing that dizziness. Who knows- and thanks for sharing your story :)
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Jan-24-09 09:20 AM
Response to Reply #23
61. Monday is coming!
Yes, a low iron count could have been the problem, but I recall having a quick blood test done before I could donate. That was the time I was refused as my count was borderline...

Thank you...I just had to share my story because Nicki was sick, and I've always been so thankful to the donors.
DU gave me a little place to do so...
Best wishes for Monday...I'll be thinking of you...:hug:


peace~
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rurallib Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 01:09 PM
Response to Original message
12. I gave white cells for a newborn about 2 years ago
kind of a surreal experience. The blood bank called at 4 AM and asked how quickly I could get there. There was an abbreviated screening and no pre-donation shot of nueprigen. So by 6AM I am giving with the doctor literally pacing at my feet. I couldn't possibly bleed any faster but I tried. About an hour later I was done. The doctor said she had about half an hour yet.
The next time I gave the nurse told me the baby had lived. They usually never say anything about the patient. I don't think they are allowed. The family also gave me a nice little gift basket. Certainly not necessary, but it made my wife cry when I brought it home. I was so happy everything turned out OK as far as I knew.
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:46 PM
Response to Reply #12
24. rurallib, what a heartwarming story..
I can't imagine how you felt knowing at that moment you were donating for a newborn...surreal experience for sure.
Answering the call at 4 AM...:hug:
I tried to google the nueprigen and the reason for it, but nothing came up that actually explained, or that I could understand.

Your story went to my heart as my first grandson was rushed to neonatal ICU . His platelet count was extremely low because of my daughter's illness..it was horrifying. Although the disease is not hereditary, it penetrated her placenta...After a few days, his own immune system kicked in and he was fine. We both knew that this was a possibility prior to his birth, and were assured that he'd be okay..but it was still scary. Her entire pregnancy was guarded.

Many nurses are living angels...She just had to share that joy with you. Not many get to know that they've saved a life...a brand new life:loveya: And not many parents get to thank the person who gave their child life after birth.
The gift basket that made your wife cry brought tears to my eyes, also.

How does one thank someone for saving a baby?
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story of love..
:loveya:

peace~
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elfrangel Donating Member (661 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 03:06 PM
Response to Reply #24
27. Are you talking about Neupogen?
Edited on Mon Jan-19-09 03:08 PM by elfrangel
It increases white blood cell growth in the body, specifically neutrophils.

Also known as Filgrastim.

http://health.yahoo.com/blood-medications/filgrastim/healthwise--d00512a1.html
http://www.rxlist.com/neupogen-drug.htm

(The 2nd link is geared a bit more to the health care worker, but you can still get a lot of information from it.)
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rurallib Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 04:13 PM
Response to Reply #27
32. probably. Normally I would get a shot to stimulate white cell growth
about 12 hours prior to donation. Whatever it is, it gives me a headache and chills and I can't sleep that night.
Often a donee needs several series of white cells so the blood bank will set up donors to fill it out. We can give every 3rd day, for a total of 4 times in 12 days max. I can promise you that after that 4th donation, there ain't much left in the tank for anything. I need about a two day recovery. It is like a really hard period I am guessing.
So with white cells and platelets I get stuck about 20 times a year. I have pretty thick scars on my inner elbow. The nurses really have to jab to get it in anymore.
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elfrangel Donating Member (661 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jan-20-09 12:39 AM
Response to Reply #32
52. Wow.....
I gave blood once and nearly passed out. :) Not b/c they didn't feed me or anything, but I was so hyped up (hate needles..I know...) that whoever got my blood got a nice adrenaline shot as well. I started late and finished first. Kinda funny.

Bless you for enduring that though. I've given blood to my patients and always am thankful that it is available in the first place. :hug:
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GreenPartyVoter Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 01:13 PM
Response to Original message
13. Nice circle of life post, Gaia! (But seriously, that is really lovely! :^D)
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:58 PM
Response to Reply #13
26. Very sweet of you...thank you...
:hug:

I'm sitting here typing all misty-eyed....
Oh you! I just learned something else...
You sent me to Greek mythology...I never would have imagined ending up there:o

Thank you, GreenPartyVoter
:loveya:

peace~
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GreenPartyVoter Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 03:52 PM
Response to Reply #26
31. Aw *hugs* And ya never know where Greek mythology is gonna turn up. LOL
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lightningandsnow Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 01:17 PM
Response to Original message
15. I'm going to donate for the first time, soon!
17 is the minimum age to donate blood in Canada, and I turned 17 a little less than a month ago. I have an awful fear of needles, but I figure the best way to get over it is by donating blood! Plus, people need it, so letting a fear of needles prevent me from doing it is kind of silly.
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 03:13 PM
Response to Reply #15
29. Beautiful AspieGrrl....
Isn't it wonderful to know that you'll be overcoming your fear by giving the gift of life?:hug:
This will be an experience that you'll never forget...I truly admire you...and appreciate your beautiful heart.
To be so young, and have the need to give as soon as you turn of age...

I was amazed at the age range when I donated...from the very young to people much older than myself...
You'll be an inspiration to other young people...
Heartfelt thanks from my family and all those in need..
:loveya:

peace~
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DarkTirade Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 04:20 PM
Response to Reply #15
33. Just make sure you eat something.
One of my exes gave plasma and then scared the crap out of us an hour or two later when she suddenly fainted in the middle of the pet store.

... that's also when I discovered that picking someone up may be easy, but when they go completely limp it suddenly becomes a lot harder. :)
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lizziegrace Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 01:21 PM
Response to Original message
16. I had multiple transfusions when Lelapin was born
Blood donors saved MY life. :hug:

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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 03:26 PM
Response to Reply #16
30. Tears of joy...
lizziegrace..
I can't imagine what you went through to have your beautiful Lelapin.:hug: And for her to have you.
Your life was saved as she was coming into your world...our world...
We both know that there is no way to convey our thanks...there are no words.
The blood donors have given us their love...

:loveya:

I hope that things are going a bit better for the both of you...
I know that it was a bit rough a few days ago:hug:

peace~
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blondeatlast Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:12 PM
Response to Original message
20. As a recipient more than once due to life-threatening anemia, thank you all indeed and then some.
I'm a pretty rare breed, too; I once had to wait when I needed it.

Thank you, thank you, thank you all who donate or would like to but for whatever reason cannot; just knowing that you would if you could helps.
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 08:57 PM
Response to Reply #20
42. Hugs to you, blondeatlast...
Must have been scary when you had to wait:hug:
Those of us who depend on the goodness of others truly understand.

I'm glad you had a place to say 'thank you'....
I hope you're doing okay...
:loveya:


peace~
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lunatica Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:20 PM
Response to Original message
21. You're welcome! Thanks for acknowledging us!
Edited on Mon Jan-19-09 02:22 PM by lunatica
I found out that over the course of my lifetime I have given 16 gallons of blood. At a pint per session. Here's a graph I looked up to try to visualize how much that is. 16 gallons is 128 pints. And there were times when I went years without donating blood.


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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 09:21 PM
Response to Reply #21
44. Heartfelt thanks, lunatica
:hug:
That's an amazing amount of blood ....can't imagine all the lives you've touched.
The chart is awesome...I just visualized 16 gallons lined up...
Thank you for sharing this...
And thank you for giving of yourself...
I'm feeling wonderful that you appreciate the acknowlement...It feels good to be able to come to DU to express my thanks to DUers...and even to others out there who will never see this.
You know I have no words to express my appreciation...

Thank you from all who have been saved by your love for humanity...
:loveya:

peace~
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lizerdbits Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 02:51 PM
Response to Original message
25. Thanks for the reminder that it's time to donate
Had a vaccine for work and had to wait.
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 09:28 PM
Response to Reply #25
46. You're very welcome : )
I'm so touched that my gratitude reminded you...
I really admire those who can give...and do.
There really are no words of thanks, lizerdbits.
Just know that you are precious and loved...

You have a heart of gold.:hug:


:loveya:

peace~
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Eurobabe Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 04:26 PM
Response to Original message
34. If I could I would, but I have autoimmune thyroid
disease and am disqualified from donating blood. :(

But my hubby has been a frequent donor. :hug:
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mwooldri Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 06:19 PM
Response to Reply #34
35. I'd love to donate too. But I suffer from a heinous crime.
I'm English, and lived in the UK throughout the 1980s.

I actually did donate once, I don't know if they actually used the blood. Then some news story hit about someone getting new variant CJD from a blood transfusion and in one stroke, the whole of the UK got banned.

The UK got their revenge. You can't donate if you've lived in the USA some significant time. Hormones in the beef apparently but whether that's true or not I don't know.

Mark
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 10:10 PM
Response to Reply #34
48. so sorry...
Hugs to you, 48percenter:hug:
My Nicki also has a thyroid condition and must take Synthroid. I know there are different kinds of thyroid disorders. I tried to google autoimmune thyroid, but don't know if it's the same condition that she has. I hope you're doing well:hug: No frowns, you have a beautiful heart...I can't donate either, but hope that one day I'll be able to.

Please give your hubby a special hug from me tonight...and then another from all the others who have received his gift of life and love...

:loveya:

peace~
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Eurobabe Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jan-20-09 01:37 AM
Response to Reply #48
53. thanks...i am fine yes, it's called hashimoto's thyroiditis
Edited on Tue Jan-20-09 01:38 AM by 48percenter
been treated with replacement meds for 5 years now. I am hypothyroid because my immune system attacks or did attack my thyroid and tried to kill it. I think we caught it before too much damage was done, because I am on a very small dosage of synthetic hormone. I used to weigh 125-130 lbs. **sigh** but with thy meds, I am over 160, thankfully I am tall, almost 5'9" so I can carry it, but I have such a hard time losing anything no matter how much I bike, ski, etc. That's the only downside. Otherwise I feel terrific. :D

BTW, January is THYROID AWARENESS MONTH, I forgot to make another thread in GD! I am off...

:hug: to you and your daughter. :hi:
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sohndrsmith Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 06:24 PM
Response to Original message
36. Great thread. Thank you. I'm so angry that I can't give blood because
I have VonWillebrands (hereditary and disqualifying). Being a transfusion recipient (slightly more complicated because of the VW) I am enormously grateful to all blood donors. Please Give Blood!!!! It DOES save lives!!!
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 11:13 PM
Response to Reply #36
49. sohndrsmith((hug))
Please don't be angry because you can't give of yourself in blood...there are many ways we can compensate by paying forward.:hug: You are on the receiving end of the donors, and have expressed your gratitude..
:loveya:
I had never heard of your disease, so did a quick research...it sounds a lot like my daughter's illness.
I don't know how this affects the quality of your life...I know when my daughter isn't down with her ITP, she lives over the edge and freaks me out. I hope you are doing well...:hug:

Last night I was in fear ...and so I started the thread and went to sleep. I never thought I'd do such a thing...
I awoke to all the beautiful people as I awaited the news from my Nicki...
Those who give and those who recieve...
We all belong in that circle of love...
:grouphug:
Isn't it wonderful that one can save a life just by taking a little time? I'm happy that the donors are there for you, also.

Just maybe...someone who has never donated blood before will be inspired to do so... :-)

Take care, sohndrsmith
:loveya:

peace~
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sohndrsmith Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jan-20-09 03:27 AM
Response to Reply #49
54. you're so sweet - and my heart goes out to you and your daughter, too!
I didn't know I had VonWillebrands until my daughter's tongue began to bleed when she was 6 months old and it had to be cauterized because it wouldn't stop bleeding. It was only then that I got tested, as did the rest of my family. My father may have had it, but he was dealing with full-blown AIDS and never got tested. No other living family members had it. Since my mom doesn't have it, he must have had it, I guess. My mother has the opposite problem - she's had 5 heart attacks in the last 6-7 years... her blood clots too much!

It didn't affect my life until 8 years ago when I was in a serious car accident and developed massive internal hemorrhaging that the doctors didn't expect (they didn't know I had a bleeding disorder. my brother alerted them, luckily, which saved my life and lead to the plasma transfusions).

I am not familiar with ITP, but it does seem to have some similarities - VW doesn't usually affect quality of life (though it can change over time, but generally doesn't pose a risk - except in situations like mine where internal bleeding can't be stopped, especially if they don't know where the injury is, as in the case of severe trauma, like a car crash).
I'm supposed to go for bleeding time tests on a regular basis but I don't have health insurance.

And I urge easy bruisers to get tested - it can save your life in a trauma - it saved mine... knowledge is power. : )
As bummed as I am that I can't give blood, I'm glad I know about it and I'd feel worse if I'd given factor-screwy blood unknowingly : ).

Please accept hugs for yourself and your daughter from me..!
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PeaceNikki Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 06:28 PM
Response to Original message
37. Yay! I am a blood drive coordinator for the American Red Cross
We do 2 drives per year at my place of employment.

It's an easy and important way to give to your community and I strongly encourage those who can to donate as often as possible. There are a lot of people who are unable due to eligibility restrictions or legitimate fears... so all the more reason that those of us that can, do. ESPECIALLY this time of year. A lot of drives are canceled or end up with terrible turn-out due to the weather.

:thumbsup:
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 11:46 PM
Response to Reply #37
50. Yes!
Thank you, PeaceNikki :hug:
:yourock:
Thank you for being a donor and coordinator....And thank you for encouraging others to donate.
You're right about the weather..it's been a horrible year everywhere, so it is especially important now...

I just have to do this:D
My Nicki is a Peace Nicki, too!
Here we are doing our thing a couple years ago...



Heartfelt thanks for being you...


:loveya:

peace~
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PeaceNikki Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 11:57 PM
Response to Reply #50
51. :)
It's such a simple thing to do, costs nothing and has a real impact. It's a donation from which no executives can skim dollars for their multi-million dollar salaries and bonuses. 100% goes directly to helping people who really need it. All types are needed but I'm a universal donor so I am especially aware of the need for O neg in trauma situations.

You and your daughter are beautiful. :)
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blaze Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 07:15 PM
Response to Original message
39. Last summer, my neighbor and I were in our front yards
raking and pulling weeds and all that stuff... and we got a chuckle out of the fact that we were both wearing t-shirts from a 1999 blood drive. :)

I proudly, and often as encouragement to others, wear my 10 gallon donor pin.

My mom donated for years until her breast cancer (she's fine tyvm) treatment disqualified her.

Mom was a great role model. :)
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Jan-24-09 08:38 AM
Response to Reply #39
57. Thank you, blaze...Awesome visual : )
:hi:
I'm so thankful that this thread isn't archived! I was so emotionally drained, Nicki was sick and my work week was hell....I'm back to thank and acknowledge all the beautiful people...

Your post made me smile....caring for Mother Earth in your own little piece of the world while sporting those shirts!
I didn't know about the pins either. Surely something to wear with pride.:hug:

Yes, your Mom was a beautiful role model. I know your family went through a lot with her breast cancer....Thankfully you have your Mom.

blaze, thank you for giving life and love..
:loveya:

peace~
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Skittles Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 07:37 PM
Response to Original message
40. thirty gallons donated in North Texas
:thumbsup:
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Jan-24-09 08:48 AM
Response to Reply #40
58. Thank you, Skittles (hug)
Thirty gallons of love! :hug:

I finally did a search after reading this...I just had to know...

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_much_blood_is_in_the_human_body

You're making the world a better place...
I owe my life to all who give....There really are no words to express my gratitude.
Thank you for being you...
:loveya:
peace~
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 09:10 PM
Response to Original message
43. She's okay...for today : )
Before I continue to reply, please know that my Nicki saw her specialist today, and he put her on steroids. I picked her meds up for her and dropped them off. I just spoke with her on the phone, and she's in good spirits. Of course, she's going back to work tomorrow, and never listens to her MD or me. Thankfully she's working second shift, so has more time to rest...Rest with a baby? She's such a fighter...and very stubborn.
I'm feeling better...not so teary-eyed.
No long hours of transfusions for now...
You are all wonderful ....

peace~
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Digit Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jan-19-09 09:22 PM
Response to Original message
45. I am A+, so it is unusual to see a call for my blood type, but
About two weeks ago I did see that one of our local hospitals was in dire need as they had a patient who was bleeding out. Years ago, I weighed too little to donate and I just had it in my head that I could not donate. My weight is now fine, so I qualified.
The poor tech had not had much experience and inserted the needle too deep and her supervisor had to come over and move the needle around. Then when the phleb in training tried to bandage me up, I knew my blood flow was cut off. Thank goodness her supervisor came back over and re-wrapped it.
Even with all of that...it still was a piece of cake and I was glad I could help.
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Jan-24-09 09:00 AM
Response to Reply #45
59. Wonderful timing, Digit...
You responded to the call for life just recently and are now being acknowledged with heartfelt thanks:hug:
I've had some painful experiences just getting blood tests, so know what you went through. I demanded, and received a SpongeBob SquarePants sticker a few years ago.

I'm glad that you're glad you could help...
Beyond glad...your 'piece of cake' was a beautiful slice of life...

Thank you for being you...

:loveya:

peace~
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yellowdogintexas Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Jan-24-09 10:58 AM
Response to Original message
62. I have done about 2 gallons over time. I can't give as often as I would like
for some reason I don't recover my red cells as fast as I should & I can't make the requirement every time. But I do donate.

I am on the National Bone Marrow network too.
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Dystopian Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Jan-24-09 07:04 PM
Response to Reply #62
63. Thank you, yellowdogintexas : )
I'm so very grateful...as are many:hug:
:grouphug:
I just did a check on the National Bone Marrow network as I wasn't really aware of all the details...
This is quite a procedure...I really have no words...

:loveya:

Heartfelt thanks...
In this world, with people like you...life is good...and life goes on.

peace~
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