Would you give blood?

[Nquartz]

I'm due to go & keep getting emails/texts asking me to go but not sure I want to go

I'm quite a rare blood group (6% of your population) so feel guilty.

I went earlier this week.

They had good protocols for social distancing / hygiene etc.

I think they need it more than ever now, so thank you for considering going.

I did just over a week ago. Would do it now too, imagine they have space people out a bit more.

Went this morning, they gave procedures to ensure you are 2 meters from everyone (except the staff obviously). The nurse said around 30% had cancelled today.

I had an appointment to go tomorrow, and after a week of almost daily texts reminding me to go, stating they had extra hygiene measures in place etc I got a text yesterday saying they are short-staffed and not to go. I imagine it’s because I’m O+ and maybe they don’t need my blood type as much as some others.

I had my session tomorrow cancelled, which is a shame.

Im an O Negative so am a universal donor and used to donate reguarly, however last time I passed out which has put me off going since.

I was booked in for next month but had a message this morning to say it's cancelled and the next nearest place is quite far away so need to have a look to see what my options are.

I’m happy to give blood, also rare, and have an appt booked for 20 something April. Thing is, it’s at the big donation centre in the city where I work, 20 miles away. There are no appts available more locally. I don’t know what to do!

I would (O negative) but can't because I've had Hep C

Definitely would if I could but I tried to donate last month and my iron was too low and low enough I’m not allowed for a year low :(

I'm not allowed to give blood anymore - having fertility treatment with donor eggs is one of the things that disqualifies you. I was really upset when I found out (entirely by accident) because I always considered it very worthwhile. I definitely would if I could. Of course, you should take into account anything in your personal circumstances that might sway your thinking, though.

On a related note, I'm now pregnant and at high risk for haemorrhaging - my consultant has said they want to have IV access in place ready when I deliver, in case I need any blood products in a hurry. I'm being induced at the end of next week. So, I'd personally take is as a kindness if those who feel able to continue donating do so!

Another yes here. I’m not eligible again until June but will go as soon as I can, they called me to check the end date for my break recently which suggests high need.

I've booked an appointment for 4 weeks time.

Thanks everyone

I'm booked to give in a month and intend on going.

Went two weeks ago and asked if they are likely to reduce the time between us being allowed to go and donate again. 16 wks for women atm I'm sure we could go more often ( not a medical person at all btw!!)

Last went in January so will go when I'm next invited.

please go if you can as people still do need transfusions some daily and news of blood bank shortages is only adding to their stress.

100% I'd go but currently pregnant also likely to need blood during my twins birth as very anemic right now so thank you so much for going !

Yes please do. I’ve just had two transfusions and am so grateful to those who do. Now it’s even more critical than ever.

Could someone who has been recently tell me more about the measures they are using to keep everyone safe - Particularly between donor and staff. I guess the staff all have full PPE but do they give the donor a mask too or what? Am thinking about booking appt (haven’t been for years) but would like to know what to expect. Thank you.

No PPE for staff or donors, obviously you just don’t go with symptoms so not needed when it’s amready in short supply