I do it for more than just the Fig Newtons

Although, receiving a pack of Fig Newtons is a huge benefit.

My blood type is O+, which is pretty close to being a universal donor. WebMD has a good description of blood types and what causes a transfusion reaction.

Every 8 weeks, Virginia Blood Services stops by the offices where I work. I try to donate every time they are here. It's easy.

I know some folks are afraid of needles. That's ok to be bothered by them, but don't let that stop you from donating.

Or attempting to donate. The phlebotomists (the people who are drawing the blood from the donors) screen you. You privately answer questions about yourself--they seem very interested in potential exposure to mad cow disease--and there is a simple test for your blood's iron content. I'm always amazed at the number of people turned away because of a lack of iron.

If all of that checks out, then you do like the cartoon shows here. They lay you back in a comfortable chaise lounge looking donation chair and you are subjected to a tiny pinprick. About 8 to 10 minutes later, you've donated a pint of blood.

After they remove the needle and tape some gauze to your arm, you get to grab some goodies. Water, juices, and clear sodas from the cooler and peanuts, granola bars, pretzels, and Fig Newtons from the snacks. I love Fig Newtons.

But that isn't why I donate.

When my son, Alex, was born back in 1989, his mother hemorrhaged a great deal during the C-section. I was there. I saw it happen. I watched her faint. They used 8 units of whole blood before they kicked me out of the room. (I got to spend quality time with Alex. Everyone was being very nice to dad and the baby.)

EDIT: Just to clarify, Alex's mother was indeed my wife at the time.

I had given blood before that time, but after that point, I gave regularly. If that blood hadn't been available, thanks to generous donors, Alex's mom would not have survived.

I think about that every time I donate. If you donate, thank you. If you don't, please consider it.

Here are some facts from Virginia Blood Services.