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Yesterday was the 2nd annual Topeka Media Blood Drive at West Ridge Mall.  I went over in the afternoon and gave blood with the "double red cell machine."  As I understand it, this machine goes through a series of motions where it basically takes out your whole blood like a regular blood giving procedure, but then then it separates out the red blood cells from the white bloods and pumps the white blood back in your veins.  This allows them to take double the amount of red-blood cells, which the need during blood transfusions.  After running a series of quick tests on my blood it will be in a hospital and ready to use in less than 24 hours.  So, as I write this blog, someone may be getting my blood right now.  It's kinda cool to think about. 

The need for blood is in high demand and everyone who is healthy should give.  I may not give as often as I should, but I normally give about 2 times per year.  It takes less than 30 minutes and is painless.  There is a little pinch as the needle goes into your arm, but it honestly is not bad.  So if you are someone who has not given in awhile, go to the community blood center and make a donation.  Not only is it the right thing to do, but you will feel good about yourself afterwords.