Week 14, 2010 seems like a very long time ago. It was back when Nils still had a near-paralyzing fear of needles and, for the first time in his life, dared to donate his blood.
These days, he’s leading others to the blood donation centers. Much for the same reason as Nils — fear — several of his colleagues had never yet given blood. But, with a bit of determination and lots of courage, they proved that if Nils can do it, they can too!
"Yes, we can!"
Due to the Red Cross’ strict rules on when we cannot give blood, i.e., if recently hospitalized for any reason, are under a prescribed weight, or have traveled to zones where disease may be an issue, in the end, not everyone was able to participate, but all got kudos for their effort.
Not so bad afterall
And, as “men will be boys”, the challenge of the task may well have helped conquer some of the fear.
A little competition? Whatever it takes.
Congratulations Nils and all his colleagues on your dedication to give!
"No, my bandage is bigger!"
Today, June 14, 2011, is World Blood Donor Day!
As Nils will attest, it’s not so tough to organize your own group from work or organization. While recognizing that the need and commitment are serious, it can also be a fun, bonding event — it just may take a little nudging. It seems that when you have a group, somehow the courage increases exponentially.
For information on a blood donation center near you, google “Red Cross blood donation” and your country or city/town.
