Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Giving Blood

On Monday night, I gave blood, like I do every 8-10 weeks. I have O- and there was a specific need for it on Monday. I've given blood for many years and for as long as I can remember, the technician inserting the needle has always had difficulty finding a good vein. Something has happened since I've lost 80 pounds. It is so much easier for them to find a vein and get me in and out fast. I am amazed at how losing weight has effected every aspect of life even to the time saved and ease met in giving blood.

I almost was turned away as I had a temperature of 100.8. Who knew chewing mint gum raises your temperature up to 4 degrees? Wish I knew that trick when I was growing up. I spit the gum out and less than 10 minutes later, temperature 97.3. All was well.

After giving blood, I have always enjoys the snacks provided by Panera. They donate bagels, Danish, muffins, etc. and are delicious. I did have a half of Danish. I figured I had to lose a pound of blood, don't you think? ;)

10 comments:

Kathy said...

My husband is an O-neg, too, and has always been treated like royalty by the Blood Center. And as a nurse who made her living "sticking it" to patients for IV's, I can attest to the fact that it is much easier to find veins in people who are thinner. The worst...men whose arms were covered with tattoos!

Since you are posting fairly regularly, I guess the kids have not gotten the best of you yet!

Kate said...

I've never been good at getting my blood taken, it's something about watching my blood come out of my body, it makes me sick! I just have to turn away and not watch. I have a rare blood type also, as I'm AB-.

And good job on the panera treats, sounds like half a cheese danish is just what the doctor ordered!

Anonymous said...

I always joke about being an optimist -- can't help it -- my blood type is "be positive" ;-)

noelle said...

thin or fat, they always have a hard time finding my veins. Except when I'm pregnant and have all that extra blood flow. then I actually don't mind it since it's so quick and easy.

new*me said...

I have always had tiny veins....even thin in my senior years. I was turned away several times because their needles weren't small enough. Maybe all my cardio will help with the issue? The blood bank comes to town next week and they always want O+ so maybe I'll give it a try.

How is your new job going ;)??

TB--Milwaukee said...

New job starts Oct 6. Can't wait!

Anonymous said...

i want to give my O- blood too if i get Panera!! Yummy!! or is that just being selfish?

Anonymous said...

New job? I thought you were going to stay at home. I'm so confused!

TB--Milwaukee said...

New job will be staying home. No need to be confused. I'm sure I'll have plenty of work around the house to do.

john - from fat to fit said...

Just chewing mint gum raised your temp 4 degrees?? Never heard of that one!