Blog du Wren

One-Gallon Blood Donation Pin

Do you donate blood? No judgement either way. I know there are lots of reasons people choose not to give blood. It's not for everyone, for sure. For me, however, it feels like an easy way to be helpful in a meaningful way and get some free cookies to boot. This past week, I achieved something many years in the making: my 1 gallon donation pin!

For years, I couldn't give blood because of my frequent travels to malaria infected areas. Back then, you had to wait a full year after traveling to many places before you could donate. Since I was traveling almost every year, I was rarely eligible. That on top of it not being at the top of my mind even when I was eligible, there were only a few times when I happened by a blood bus event that I donated.

When Della was killed, I was struggling for things to do to keep myself sane. A helpful suggestion of finding a way to help people was made and I somehow latched on to this very tangible form of helping. Starting on Valentine's Day (I thought it fittingly appropriate for two reason), I gave whenever I could. And every time I give, I think of Della. Upon my return from Senegal/The Gambia, I had to wait 3 months (malaria rules now having been updated) until I was finally able to get in for my 8th pint, or in other words, completing my gallon!

I know America's blood donation system has its flaws. And, like I said, it's not for everybody. But I encourage you, if you're interested, to schedule an appointment and make it a part of your routine. For me, it's not just the free cookies and 1-gallon donation pin that make a worthwhile habit.

Friday April 29 2022

File under: misc

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