It's In You To Give

Today I'm heading out for a big breakfast and then over to Canadian Blood Services to give donation #55. The big breakfast is a tradition for my spouse and I before giving, not only because breakfast out is enjoyable, but also beneficial when donating blood. A fact we only discovered after donation #1 when we showed up without eating or drinking anything. Not the best plan when removing a pint of blood from your system! Now we make sure we drink lots of fluids and fill up on a tasty breakfast before heading off to give blood.

My partner and I have been giving blood for many years now as it seemed like a simple way to help others. I also remember my dad donating for many years and he always stuck his "I donated" stickers on his lunch box. Since being diagnosed with cancer, he can no longer give, so we're happy to continue that tradition. In fact, over the years we have known several friends and family who have needed blood transfusions. Actually, I also ended up needing 2 bags of blood about 6 years ago (I always wondered if there was any chance I actually got my own blood back during my transfusion ;) I'm sure most of us know someone who has benefitted from others donating blood.

We have all likely heard that only a small percentage (somewhere between 3-4%) of eligible Canadians actually donate. Most of the donors I have spoken to didn't necessarily plan on becoming lifelong donors, but once they realized how simple it was, they just kept donating. Now I know not everyone is able to donate blood for a variety of reasons, however, if you are eligible and interested, I'd encourage you to sign up now and give it a try. You can even join us for our next pre-donation breakfast if you like! #365ofgoodWR

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