It’s been forever since I have been able to give blood.  I can remember going with Mom and Dad when they gave blood for years before I was of age to be able to.  It was just a month or two after I was finally of age to give blood that I finally did.

I have never ever EVER liked needles or blood.  Blech.  However, I’ve always felt like this is one way I can help the people around me, so I have tried to go often.  One cool thing is that I am a pedi donor, which means I have a certain thing in my blood that allows my blood to go to babies.  Cool, right?

One thing I’ve thoroughly enjoyed since beginning this is that it’s become something Mom and I do together.  We used to go grab something to eat, hang out for a while, and then “race” to see who could finish giving blood first (as if we can affect it).  It’s been a long time since we have gotten to do this, and we finally got to while I was home for Christmas!

All Prepped Up

David, Mom, and I headed to the blood center early last week.  Mom was able to get all prepped first.  She’s always so calm!

Enjoying Herself Much?

I’m glad I got these pictures when I did.  This was one of the hardest times I’ve had with giving blood.  Ugh.  There has only been one time that I have passed out, and I got really close this time around.  (For the record, the only time I ever beat Mom in finishing giving blood was the same time that I passed out.  Lovely.)  Luckily, Mom was wise enough to realize I should warn the nurses.  Even though David was prepped and stuck well after I was, he beat me!  What?!?  I kept asking Mom and the nurses if I was done yet because I wasn’t sure I was going to make it.  I’m just glad I didn’t pass out in the middle of the whole thing.

Even with all the trouble, I can’t wait to go again with you, Mom.  I love that we do this together!