I felt restless not having anything on the calendar for today, though I have two events scheduled for tomorrow. I decided to head to the Kentucky Blood Center to donate blood. My momma tells me that my blood type (A+) is always in need! Why didn't I think of this before? It's totally a way to give back, potentially giving LIFE to someone! I felt pretty good about this impromptu decision slapped onto my calendar after having such great momentum.
When I got there, I filled out all the bubbles on the paperwork asking me about travels and contact with potentially sick people. The phlebotomist took me in the little curtained room, stuck me in both middle fingers in order to get an accurate iron reading, then did other screening tests to make sure I was qualified to donate. I've donated many times before, so wasn't worried.
But when it came time for blood pressure... I measured incredibly low. Both arms, same reading. I have never had an issue with my blood pressure so I am not sure what happened, but I was sadly excused for the day with a paper thanking me for the attempt to donate! Maybe it had something to do with my 6 mile run this morning, or a lack of fluids? Who knows, but I will be back to finish off this day and successfully donate by the end of this project! I hope...?
And so ends day "12.5" because I can't possibly get total credit for this one. I think I should get partial credit for having battle wounds during the attempt. I left looking a bit silly. At least they still let me have juice and snacks. They're pretty nice folks at the blood center.
For all you healthy Lexingtonians that are interested in donating, here's the addresses and hours for the Blood Centers in our county:
Lexington Beaumont Donation Center
3121 Beaumont Centre Circle
Lexington, KY 40513
859.276.2534 | 800.775.2522
Monday & Friday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Sunday hours for platelet and plasma donations only.
Lexington Andover Donation Center
3130 Maple Leaf Drive
Lexington, KY 40509
859.327.3223 | 800.775.2522
Monday & Friday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday: Closed