make the experience of doing so accessible and relatable.
Inspired by Dr. Mack’s advice, I had the opportunity to donate blood this semester at Howard University, where I attend school. At first, I was terrified. I hate needles – even the idea of them launches my cortisol levels into orbit– but I challenged myself to donate blood and did.
The experience was straightforward. I walked into the Armour J. Blackburn ballroom and in front of me were four stationed beds. When my name was called, I walked to one of the desks and was asked a round of questions while my finger was facilely pricked to check if my iron levels were high enough to donate.
Once it was determined they were, I was ushered to one of the four stations to lay down and prepare for donation. They gave me a juice box! I was instructed to squeeze a ball and look the other way as a pre-packaged disposable needle was inserted into my arm (they usually ask if you want to be able to see the needle and will dress your arm accordingly.) I sat pretty comfortably and squeezed said ball every five seconds for at most 15 minutes.
After I had filled 19 ounces and some change (they take extra blood for testing) I was bandaged and wrapped and told to hold my arm up to the ceiling. At one point, I started to feel a little too warm and fuzzy and was laid fully flat on the bed for about five minutes. I was given another juice box and some fruit snacks to raise my blood sugar levels. It was simple, generally painless, and quick. Yes, I was overrun by anxiety, but once I donated and my endless questions were all gaily answered, I was at ease.
About a week later, the results of my blood tests were released and I learned that I actually have the sickle cell trait myself. I’m sharing my story because I know it is easier said than done to donate blood, for as Black women we will always be skeptical of the intentions of the medical system.
However, after donating, I left feeling pleased, not only with myself and my ability to keep my composure, but because I know there are other Black humans out there that need and now have blood from someone just like them. Blood that their body can recognize as familiar.
I pledged to donate my blood at least once a year for the rest of my life. I challenge you to do the same! Visit the American Red Cross, a hospital near you, or the closest blood drive near you and donate your blood once a year as well. And if you want to make sure your blood goes directly where you want it to, ask for a ‘Blue Tag’. This ensures that your blood is used specifically for those in need of blood transfusions due to sickle cell anemia.
Donating your blood will quite literally save a life, more profoundly, a BLACK life.
* If you choose to donate, please send us an email or photo to [email protected] we would love to post you and/or share your contribution on BlackDoctor.org.*
Lela Nicole Matthews is a Junior International Business Major and Music Minor at Howard University.