Hoxworth Blood Donation
Monday, September 14th, 2015
A few weeks into my pre-junior year's fall semester, I donated blood for my first time through Hoxworth. I was extremely nervous as I have maintained a childhood fear of needles and other people's blood. After filling out paperwork, I waited to be processed before actually giving blood. I felt extremely queasy as I looked around and repeatedly asked myself what I had gotten myself into! When I was called to be processed I knew there was no going back.
The lady who processed me was extremely friendly and played a huge part in calming my nerves. The remainder of the process up to giving blood went smoothly, and I continued to relax. When I reached the chair though my hesitation returned. I convinced myself that if I did not watch the needle go in that I would be fine for the remainder of the process. Although the needle had to be adjusted numerous times to get a better flow, I believe I successfully handled my fears. I did get a little light headed at the beginning of the donation although I recovered fairly quickly.
Overall, I am very glad that I participated in this service event. Everything considered it was not as bad as I imagined and donating blood is truly a wonderful and simple opportunity to save lives. I will certainly consider donating blood again in the future.
The lady who processed me was extremely friendly and played a huge part in calming my nerves. The remainder of the process up to giving blood went smoothly, and I continued to relax. When I reached the chair though my hesitation returned. I convinced myself that if I did not watch the needle go in that I would be fine for the remainder of the process. Although the needle had to be adjusted numerous times to get a better flow, I believe I successfully handled my fears. I did get a little light headed at the beginning of the donation although I recovered fairly quickly.
Overall, I am very glad that I participated in this service event. Everything considered it was not as bad as I imagined and donating blood is truly a wonderful and simple opportunity to save lives. I will certainly consider donating blood again in the future.