Blood from a turnip...
Well, the last time I was able to give blood was in 2003. Since then, my hematocrit levels have been way too low - not low enough to be a health hazard, just low enough that I can't give.
...then I started getting calls about giving platelets because my blood type is REALLY needed for them. So I've been gamely keeping appointments and trying.
Well, today was one of those appointments. Kept it even though my internal calendar was a bit off, and hormones said NFW.
The Red Cross is now using a new gadget to check hematacrit levels. Today was the first day for it, and the technician couldn't get it to work at all at first... in the end
I GAVE PLATELETS TODAY!!!
I suppose she could have made a mistake with the new unit, but since the red blood cells got pumped back into my arm I can't see how it's an unreasonable risk.
Sore though. An hour is a long time to be hooked up to a suction pump.
...then I started getting calls about giving platelets because my blood type is REALLY needed for them. So I've been gamely keeping appointments and trying.
Well, today was one of those appointments. Kept it even though my internal calendar was a bit off, and hormones said NFW.
The Red Cross is now using a new gadget to check hematacrit levels. Today was the first day for it, and the technician couldn't get it to work at all at first... in the end
I GAVE PLATELETS TODAY!!!
I suppose she could have made a mistake with the new unit, but since the red blood cells got pumped back into my arm I can't see how it's an unreasonable risk.
Sore though. An hour is a long time to be hooked up to a suction pump.