Heh, I have permanent divots on the inside of my left elbow from donating platelets. The only downside is that the process is boring, but Red Cross is more than willing to accept the donation of DVDs to play while folks donate.

The Auld Grump

Wow something that Gump and I are both in complete agreement on. Amazing

I too have many "scars" on both arms from giving blood. It seems like the least that anyone can do to help out his fellow humans.

Oh and if you don't want to go as often, find out if your local blood donation place takes (and you qualify for) double Red Cell donations.... At my local blood bank, it takes 15 extra minutes, the bank gets twice of what they are often the most short on, and you end up going 4 months between donations.

It's a win for everyone.

I'd probably do it but I have no idea what my blood type is.

Don't they test you for that free when you donate? I need to get in myself. Have not done it and I'm a type O so would be very useful for them.

Grump and ScrubKai, I salute you. I'm still pretty new to the whole blood donation scene, but I like to think I pull my weight. Must remember to inquire about that double unit deal...

In answer to Pall_S, fear not about your blood type. They do a spectrum of tests, take your blood pressure, and type you as a matter of course, and you'll get a card with your blood type on it. That's something you should probably have in your wallet just in case.

@Kane, you're quite right about the value of type O blood, so get in there! That phone number is 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).