Last week, a few members of the CommonPlaces team took a few hours out of there day to give back to the American Red Cross at the Gail Singer Memorial Blood Drive in Manchester, NH. We had a mix of veterans and first-timers so we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to ask them a few questions about their experience of giving back to the community.
The Pros: Ben & Kami
The Rookie: Colby
The RISING Star: Hudson
1. How many times have you given blood?
Ben: "50 or so times. I give 4 plus times a year. My cousin holds the world record for giving platelets. He and his wife give every two weeks."
Kami: "Somewhere around 20 times."
Colby: "This was my first time."
Hudson: "Does falling on the playground count? If so, a lot!"
2. What was your first experience like?
Ben: "I was at a town fair and while the kiddies were going on rides I saw a blood mobile. I was a nervous wreck because needles spook me. Every since then I have been hooked giving blood as often as I can."
Kami: "I was in my early twenties and went with my best friend who donated all the time. I was REALLY nervous! Everyone was super nice there and I felt great when I left knowing that one pint of blood can save up to 3 lives."
Colby: "After watching the lady across from me go stiff and pass out, I felt like I was going to be right behind her. However, with 3 nurses taking excellent care of me, I made it...only to find out they didn't get enough for one of the test vials so I let them go back for more. They took great care of me though! Oh and I hate needles..."
Hudson: "It was fun to go with my mom."
3. What made you decide to donate blood?
Ben: "It’s giving forward. If I am ever in need, it will be nice to know someone else is saving my life. It’s also incredibly healthy for you. Studies show that giving blood reduces your likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke, and getting heart disease or cancer substantially."
Kami: "Peer pressure! Haha! I ended up needing a blood transfusion after the birth of my son, so I feel like it's my duty to give back now. I also have O negative blood which means that anyone is able to receive my blood."
Colby: "I wanted to do my part. My new year's resolution was to be more altruistic. I saw this as an obvious opportunity."
Hudson: "Ummm..."
4. Do you have any advice/tips to people who never have or are thinking about it?
Ben: "Just do it. Someone needs your help. It doesn’t take very long and you will refreshed and satisfied afterwards."
Kami: "Just do it! The nurses do this so often so you barely even feel the stick. Knowing that this saves lives completely outweighs any anxiety that I may have!"
Colby: "Be hydrated. Don’t worry or freak out. They will take excellent care of you, and they have lots of snacks!"
Hudson: "They have really good snacks and they give you stickers!"