Carter Blood Care

In the early part of December 2016, I had an appointment to donate whole blood at Carter Blood Care.  Because of my physical illness, cold, I was unable to donate, which threw off the plans to give the gift of life.  Finally, today, I felt well enough, including an almost diminished cough, to give blood.  Of course I was up front about having been sick, but no one questioned the timing of this afternoon's donation.  Hopefully both the receptionist and phlebotomist could tell I was beyond the point of contagion.  From the time I walked in till I was exiting the premises, the entire process took less than forty-five minutes.  About six times a year, I perform this civic duty.  No, I don't get paid for the act, but I do acquire points I can spend in the blood center's online store.  Once this latest set of points post to my account, I have enough to receive a $15 Starbuck's gift card.  Hooray!  This is enough of a reward for me, in addition to the fine feeling of giving blood for those in need, and the physical well-being that accompanies the process.  I lay down the challenge in asking those who are qualify and are physically able to donate whole blood, plasma, or platelets.  It is a sacrifice for humanity, and a blessing that will not go unnoticed.  Whole blood donations only take a few minutes, but plasma and platelets are more involved by time and effort.  In the end, you will be glad you did.  I always am.  It's not too late to make this one of your New Year's resolutions.  Happy giving!