Sex and Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is having a blood crisis. Right now Florida Blood Services has less than a 2 day supply of types A-, B-, O- and AB- blood. Keep in mind, that 2 day estimate is based on normal usage. One unexpected disaster could wipe it out totally.

I’m a regular blood donor and it is quick, easy and painless. My blood, type AB+, is not usually in demand since we can accept any type of blood. Still, it isn’t like I’m using it for anything so I donate when I can.

Only 5% of eligible donors ever give blood. How sad is that? I’ve also been told that of the 5% most are older people. People our age just don’t make an effort to give blood.

One reason I often here my friends give for not donating is that they aren’t healthy enough. The truth is that the requirements for blood donation are pretty small. You have to be 16 years old, at least 110 lbs, and in good health on the day of donation. Good health just means that you don’t have a cold. You CAN donate if you have piercings and tattoos. You can even donate if you were previously declined for low iron levels, as long as your iron is normal on the day of donation.

Really, unless you’ve been told by blood services that you can’t donate then don’t assume anything.

Along with a good karma and a cookie, blood donors this month can recieve a free ticket to the Ren Fest at MOSI. Click here for full details.

I hear people our age complaining about the lack of stuff in the community. Well, why should the community give to us if we aren’t willing to give to them? Let’s show Tampa Bay that the young professionals are ready roll up their sleeves and give something back!