Giving is so Easy!

So I wanted to update everyone on just how easy it is to give platelets (or blood) at the Blood Center of Central Texas.

Come to find out, I apparently have tons of platelets, which means the platelets were processed quicker.  So instead of two hours it only took one.  The little nurse kept bragging about my number.  Come to find out that the shelf life for platelets are just five days.  That is why it is so important to give platelets if you can.

It was a very painless process.  The only effects I felt was tingly tongue, which has something to do with the calcium and I got very cold, which would stop the machine.  They finally brought over an electric blanket.  So all was good!

During my hour there, they "small talk" with everyone, asking what made you want to donate, etc.  So I shared my "Matt" story several times while there.  They were moved and hoped that Matt and I might send in our story of why it is so important to donate and how it truly touches lives.  It was so easy, I agreed to donate platelets every two weeks and let them get double platelets each visit from me. 

Okay, I'm going to confess what I do when donating blood and now platelets.  I pray over what is being taken from my body and pray God's blessing, healing and protection to whomever will receive my donation.  I pray for their families and how the illness must be effecting their lives.  I pray for the medical personal who are working to heal the person.  I pray their family will be as bless as we have been with support from family, friends, and strangers. 

My prayer tonight is that someone reading this blog will be moved to become a regular donor of either platelets or blood.  And that all fear will be removed about the process.  Because it truly is one of the easiest things to do!  (And where else can you do such good while getting a little nap all curled up in a warm electric blanket -- It's a WIN WIN situation!!)

Here is to a good night tonight and a smooth check-in to the hospital for Matt tomorrow.  Were are energized and ready to kick some leukemia butt!!!!