Conquering My Fear of Giving Blood

When I was a little girl I use to always go with my Mom while she donated blood. She was one of those ALL☆ givers, getting mugs and prizes for the gallons she gave out of her pint-sized frame. I couldn't wait to eat the Oreos and Lorna Doone cookies they would give her after -- the real reason I'd tag along;)

In 1998, I decided to donate blood at my high school's blood drive (RIBC has it on record). Well, it didn't work out because I was so anxious and stressed on the table that I couldn't fill a bag of blood...so I gave up my efforts in fear and embarrasment. I was very sad :( because I wanted to be just like Glo Shaf and help.

(Hint: See Get Ready for Your Donation for the best possible experience!)

Fast forward ot 2016: A few months back I did a research study where I had to regularly get blood taken out. Because of that experience, I finally felt confident that I could donate blood without stressing out, and that happened TODAY. I gave at Moses Brown School, and loved my juice and cookies as much as when I was little. 

I overcame my fear and gave a full bag of BLOOD!!! :) :) :)

Since my mom cannot donate anymore, I can now keep up the tradition that helps save lives.

Thank you to all the awesome staff who tirelessly work at the RI Blood Center, and a good job to Nurse Lina from Colombia who did a smooth job pricking my arm and keeping me comfortable.

~ Dorna N. Shafaee-Moghadam