Yesterday, for the first time in almost 5 years, I donated blood at a local Red Cross Blood Drive. Like many people I'm not the biggest fan of needles or blood, and like a lot of woman I have low iron levels. Blood, needles, and iron levels aside I decided I wanted to do a good one for mankind.

About two weeks back I found a donation site and time that would be convenient with my work schedule and made an appointment. The American Red Cross's site made the whole search and seize project last about five minutes (you can also call them for an appointment at 1-800-GIVE-LIFE if you prefer).

After the appointment was set I browsed the ARC website to see what recommendations they have for getting ready to give blood. Here are a few major points (please check their site for the full list): drink lots of water and fluids (avoid caffeine (hard for me to do but I did it)), eat lots of healthy food (easily done, I love eating!), avoid eating fatty foods i.e. burgers, fries, ice cream (kinda hard but I took one for the team). They don't recommend a set time all these "getting ready to give blood" steps have to be started but I'd recommend about a week before your appointment. It was somewhat difficult to do but honestly, I feel great now and am trying to stick with it.

Ok, so you've done the "getting ready" steps and it's now down to Dday (donating day as I called it). You're headed to the donation destination and psyched to "help out 3 people in need" by taking a little prick. Awesome, great, good for you! Now calm down. Seriously, breathe. You don't want your blood pressure skyrocketing. Remember to breathe throughout the whole process...I know, I know I usually laugh when people say that, but trust me if nothing else it gives you something to focus on while you're getting pricked.

Note: Before any blood gets touched be prepared to answer a million questions about your health, travel habits, and sexual partners...it's a lot I know and does take some time but honestly would you rather they accepted anybodies blood!?

Rocking, you've answered the questions and filled out the papers, it's now time. Remember what I said about breathing. Here are some tips for "during donation time": relax, breathe, talk with your nurse (about anything, they are really nice, my nurse and I chatted about Rock Band and pasta sauce), and breathe. If at anytime something feels weird, wrong, uncomfortable, or hurts tell somebody immediately.

Sweet, you did it! Helped 3 people, did a good one for mankind, and didn't faint! Awesome! Now my donating friend it's snack time! Cookies, mini sandwiches, and juices galore! Enjoy, eat up, and pat yourself on the back, you deserve it!

Here's a few tips on "after donation" time: drink plenty of fluids (avoid caffeine), eat lots of healthy food, and don't work too hard. No joke, no heavy lifting! Also, if you have a desk job, caution, your pricked finger may be alittle sensitive.