.

[averylaterabbit]

Was approached by an organ donor rep. So they dont want my dirty gay blood, but theyll take my fucking organs. If you dont know, gay men are not allowed to give blood because of a risk of HIV, which is both out-dated and extremely offensive. I was told this was supposed to be changing, but no change yet as per there website today.

Comments

[velvet_the_cat]

The blood donation criteria is really strict and somewhat extreme. I was under the impression that donations were tested for infections before going into the bank regardless, and that HIV was one of the tests.

Sooo... they'll take the word of a straight donor that they've done nothing that's likely to have put them in a position to contract it, yet not allow for honest gay/bi men to say the same? That's cr@p!

Last month when I gave blood I'd just had the all clear from a hospital test I'd had done for some suspect cells found during a routine examination. The letter said "all clear", no issues, non-event, etc. The duty nurse was called over, read the letter (fortunately I'd thought to take it with me), took it away and wrote a letter to attach to my donation pack explaining that there was nothing wrong with me. (At least it was put in a sealed envelope I guess.)

They're not even consistent from one team to another. I've been both refused and accepted due a seriously long-term chronic illness I have.

I guess all that waffle translates into agreement with and much sympathy for your particular gripe. :o)