How Donating Blood Has Changed My Life.
When I began donating, I worried about the long term effects that donating might cause, and the thought of perpetual appointments was a daunting one to say the least. My mother, who earned a seven-gallon whole blood pin, also cautioned me against the frequent donation and worried about what might happen to my veins and body. These fears were not unfounded, as I often take supplements to replenish the lost vitamins and nutrients that a body needs. I have even begun to develop scar tissue on my arm from the frequent donations.
These issues, however, pale in comparison to the potential benefits and uses that my platelet donations provide. From platelet use in cancer therapy, to open-heart surgery and organ transplantation, I have learned that my platelets are necessary to let that kid with cancer keep smiling, or have grandpa home in time for Christmas. The longer I donated, the more I came to understand the importance of my donations and what those donations could mean to the individuals who received them. I also began to understand how needed ALL donations were, and how important organizations like the Global Blood Fund was to people in need all around the world. From war torn areas like Georgia; where people are in need of transfusions after suffering injuries in battle, to places like Africa; where men and women lack a steady and safe supply of blood. Even modern nations who normally have access to a consistent supply of blood can be in need. Take for example Japan, who in 2011 suffered a major earthquake and tsunami that displaced more than 300,000 people and killed 19,000 more. In their time of need, Organizations like the G.B.F and partners such as the Arkansas Blood Institute were there to help.
I take great pride in being a part of these organizations because of what I learned while donating. They showed me that every little bit helps, and that keeping a steady blood supply is a task requiring us all to do our part. It reminded me that we are a part of something greater than ourselves. When we take a science class, we are told that we are all made of stardust, and in each of us resides a piece of all those around us, and of those that came before us. The idea is that we are all connected, and whether this connection is found in the air we breathe, the genes that we are built of, or the blood that runs through our veins; we have a duty to the people around us. This cooperation towards a common goal has changed my life, and it is what makes me believe in what the Arkansas Blood Institute does. Even though I may never meet someone who has received my donations; I know that I am out there, helping people in what might be their greatest time of need.
I am but a single individual, doing my part to make the world a better place. My name is Spenser Richison, and this is why I feel good when I give blood.