I'm a wimp about a lot of things. I don't like roller coasters. I can't swim in the ocean without thinking there's a shark or some scary creature darting around my feet. And I really don't like needles. So the thought of freely giving up my blood, facing that drawing needle without the orders of a doctor, has always given me the shivers. But I decided to get over it. Or at least just try it. I'm healthy. I don't have HIV, or Hepatitis C, or a laundry list of other diseases they ask you about on the registration form. I haven't had a tattoo in the last year or surgery in the last three months. I definitely weigh more than 110 pounds. Check, check, check. And I'm not exactly wealthy -- check -- not a blood donor requirement, but seeing as I don't have extra money to donate to charity, why not give in a way just as valuable? Arguably more. So today I gave blood. Not going to lie, I was scared. Right arm out, fist clenched, eyes shut tight, a pinch, pressure, plastic bag fills, it's filled, release, deep breaths, tingling, juice, an escort, cookies. I survived. No passing out, no nurses repeatedly poking at my veins. Not a big deal. Have I overcome my fear of needles? Definitely not. But I've learned to suck it up.
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