I'm a blood type b-, friends and family have tried to encourage me to donate blood as they claim my blood type is rare (don't know how rare though) anyway ... I do not have a fear of needles, I'm however afraid or better absolutely horrified of possibly contracting a virus ect., when donating blood.

Also, after 9-11 I heard that BlueCross sold blood to the highest bidder
- what will happen to my blood once I agree to donating?

Hey there 'Red' - wow selling blood, now that is different - then again I'm over here in Australia so guess we haven't stooped to that level YET! Look over here there is really no possibility of catching any virus by donating as everything is new out of the packets etc. before used n us. Our 'red cross' is very strict and thorough with their procedures to ensure the utmost safety to all donors (we are few and far between over here, only 3 in 10 donate, pretty poor). I get a wonderful sense of satisfaction when I donate as I know I am helping someone in great need, and I would like to know that if any of my family needed blood desperately, it is available for them as well. We also have to answer and sign a questionaire relating to our personal health and sexual experiences etc. to ensure that our blood is untainted as well. It is then thoroughly tested before being passed on for use.

Look it is a wonderful thing to do, if YOU want to - however don't be pushed into it (as I convinced my sis too and she ended up fainting and all - how embarrassing - but she scared of needles) It is entirely up to you, and I'd say with the technology you guys have over there you are quite safe to donate. IT IS ENTIRELY UP TO YOU.... Take care, Cindy

Hey there 'Red' - wow selling blood, now that is different - then again I'm over here in Australia so guess we haven't stooped to that level YET! Look over here there is really no possibility of catching any virus by donating as everything is new out of the packets etc. before used n us. Our 'red cross' is very strict and thorough with their procedures to ensure the utmost safety to all donors (we are few and far between over here, only 3 in 10 donate, pretty poor). I get a wonderful sense of satisfaction when I donate as I know I am helping someone in great need, and I would like to know that if any of my family needed blood desperately, it is available for them as well. We also have to answer and sign a questionaire relating to our personal health and sexual experiences etc. to ensure that our blood is untainted as well. It is then thoroughly tested before being passed on for use.

Look it is a wonderful thing to do, if YOU want to - however don't be pushed into it (as I convinced my sis too and she ended up fainting and all - how embarrassing - but she scared of needles) It is entirely up to you, and I'd say with the technology you guys have over there you are quite safe to donate. And as for what will happen to it - it will go to someone thats life depends on it to survive, many people need it for many reasons. IT IS ENTIRELY UP TO YOU.... Take care, Cindy

Hey, I just want to tell you everyone is afraid of donating blood for whatever reason. I back in November I donated blood for the first time. I was afriad because I didnt know if I could catch any virus or anything like that. They explained to me that the only way to catch a virus is if they dont use a new needle. BUT they open the needles and everything in front you, so you will see that it is new. Also, the only way to catcha virus forsay is if someone is sickbut if a worker is sick they are not able to work until they get better and if a person who wants to donate blood is sick they have to wait til they are 100% better. When you go in to give blood do like I did. Think about all the people (even if it is just one) you will be able to help. Isaved this one little girls life who was I think 2 years old, who had a diesease and need blood. When I found out I felt really good. Giving blood will make you feel good. I PROMISE. But always go with your heart on things like this.