To feel really sad I can't give blood?

[Nogoodblood]

I read a book when I was young where blood transfusions were needed and it must have stayed with me because as soon as I turned 18 I tried to give blood but every time I am rejected!

I'm strong as a cart horse normally and I just feel a bit sad I can't help as I've had so many emails thanking me for my help it almost feels fraudulent!

I sympathise too as although I am a longterm donor I went through a spell of several years of not being able to for various reasons which was frustrating, it must be worse for those who never can. You are helping though, either by trying or posting threads like this which will perhaps prompt other people to donate, every bit of publicity helps.

I feel the same I can't ever give blood having had 3 blood transfusions after birth but feel sad I can't give back!

I tried 3 times but went faint each time. I'm not much above the minimum weight, and they took a small "pint". I was told to come back when there was more of me. Umpteen years later and there's no change.

I gave blood for 15 years as soon as I was old enough. I gave units of blood, every 6 months. When I had an op at age 39, that went tits up, I had so many transfusions I am not allowed ever to give again. I am sad I can't give again, but understand why.

I have an unusual blood group, and when going in for the op that I needed, I saw the chart that was calling for donors of the same type as me. They came through, in the end I needed 22 units.

And am eternally grateful to those that do. I am alive because of you. Thank you x