Thanks for joining me Over Coffee
A writer by passion and profession, I've been writing since I was old enough to know how, so establishing a weblog
seemed a natural progression. By adding a blog to my site, I can speak about my passions and life, share my writing, art
and photos, and comment on current events.
Thursday, August 21, 2003
What a bloody relief! I have been munching on iron-rich dried apricots and plums, eating daily (or nearly daily) servings of Cream of Wheat, spinach and legumes as well as taking a daily chewable multi-vitamin, and it paid off. This evening I had another appointment with my friends at the Red Cross. Not only was my iron high enough to donate, they didn't even have to spin it in the magic machine to see if my numbers were high enough. The little test drop of blood descended after a second's hesitation. Hurray. Of course, after a stressful day, by BP was up to 130/80 (normally right around 120/80) -- but still within donor limits. So I passed -- I got to donate. HURRAY!!
Good thing, too, since blood banks everywhere are reporting critically low supplies (just try a Google News search for "blood supplies low"). This week, I've seen articles stated that the Red Cross was reported 1-day and 2-day supplies in some areas depending on blood type. Today there's a story that says that the MO-IL Region has only a 5-hour supply (that's HOURS, not days). It should be noted that normally these organizations target a goal of a 7- to 14-days supply.
Summer vacation season is typically lower for them anyway, but current and near future events are having an even bigger impact on supply and demand. The blackout caused donation appointments and blood drives to be canceled contributing to shortages. The approaching Labor Day weekend may mean increased demand due to more accidents. And, of course, there's the need for military missions.
Incidentally, the donor center we go to here in Fairfax, VA, just moved to a new facility. Let me say that it is NICE! They have comfy chairs and lots of them for little to no waiting--even though they have actual waiting areas now. They also have truly private interview/examine rooms with pocket doors and a real, separate canteena with four tables. Plus, my favorite part--the walls are decorated with vintage Red Cross poster art.
