Hello everyone.

Today I was lucky enough to be able to donate my blood.

This was the very first time for me and I must say that it was a lot quicker and easier than I thought it might be. I was surprised at how many people turned up for this. Even people coming off the streets who had not made an appointment, were willing to wait over an hour to give their blood.

I simply turned up just before my allocated time, which I had booked online at http://www.blood.co.uk, then I got a letter in the post which I had to take along with me, fill in a short questionnaire, then a mini blood test for iron levels, and then finally lie on the couch for about 6 minute giving blood. I was then kindly rewarded with much needed drinks and biscuits.

It was really easy and relatively painless. I did feel a bit faint during the last part of my blood giving, which is apparently normal for the first time, but I was extremely well looked after.

If you are physically fit, I think it’s a very rewarding thing to do if you can. After all, you could be saving someones life! In fact, I have already booked to return in 4 months time (you’re allowed to donate every 16 weeks).

One tip if you want to donate – it’s really important that you eat well and drink plenty of water just before giving blood. I think my light headedness was because I hadn’t eaten much near the time of giving blood.

Anyway, that’s it for now.

Until soon with more musings…

Loretta