I was wondering how it would go after surgery, and today I found out! I have donated off and on for over 20 years. I have been on restriction sometimes due to a new tattoo or traveling somewhere forbidden. :thumbup:

Most of time I do just fine; sometimes tho I have felt lightheaded. I asked more questions this time to double check on the recent surgery out of the country, weight loss, etc. She was more concerned with the travel in the Caribbean in January! All was a-ok! She did recline my chair to help prevent the dizziness. It went just fine and I filled the bag within the time limit! Sometimes I am a little slow, and wasn't sure what to expect.

I am O+ so often get calls when blood is needed for surgeries. O+ is the most common blood type with A+ close behind; O- can be used for any blood type but is more rare (O+ is only compatible with 4 types).

May 17th has been an important surgery day for my family: my husband had successful surgery in 1995 for malignant melanoma; my MIL had heart bypass surgery a year later in 1996. May 17th is also her birthday! She is 88 today!

So - the public service announcement of the day is: Remember to donate!

37% of the US population is eligible to donate ? only 5% of those eligible donate regularly.

I have ALWAYS wanted to donate blood but they won't let me due to my severe anemia.

I think I may go along and offer up my arm. Thanks for that xx

I have ALWAYS wanted to donate blood but they won't let me due to my severe anemia.

I have only been turned down once for being a little low in Iron. They told me what to eat the day or so before. Not sure what you do for severe anemia tho! I was interested in where mine was after being post-op and it was 2 or 3 points higher than necessary - she said it was great!

I have been kinda good at taking Vitamins - B complex, Prenatals, Potassium. My primary dr is running labs on my in a couple of weeks and then I'll see if I need to change anything : )

At least you tried :thumbup1:. My husband can't donate due to his prior cancer.

I think I may go along and offer up my arm. Thanks for that xx

Good for you!!

Drink lots of Water ahead of time. Eat a good meal but not too soon before your appointment because it can slow down the flow. If you are nervous, ask for an ice pack for behind your neck and they can recline your chair : )

I also try to keep up a converstation with the nurse to distract me! LOL