Find the hero in you. Donate Blood >

Call 888.393.GIVE (4483)

 

Donating blood: good for others and good for you!

by Lisa Kennedy-Hurd, Everyday Hero and mother of two

I wanted to share my story, because donating blood potentially saved my life.

Blood Centers of the Pacific I was 36-years-old, a very active mother of two and a full-time career person. At work one day, there was a bloodmobile in our parking lot. I had donated blood several times in the past so I decided to stop in on my lunch break and give up another pint. During the pre-donation assessment, however, I was told that I could not donate as my blood pressure was too high. I looked at the phlebotomist with a combination of disbelief, irritation, and more than a hint of disdain as I figured there must be a mistake. Yet, she assured me that my blood pressure was dangerously high and that I should seek medical attention immediately.

I had always been healthy and never had any diagnosis of high blood pressure. I didn’t realize that a blood pressure of 210 over 155 could result in stroke or worse. Although I was very skeptical, I took her advice and made an appointment with my primary care physician. In the meantime I tracked my blood pressure several times a day to present to my doctor. On the day of my appointment, he referred me to a cardiologist where I was examined, tested, and diagnosed with high blood pressure that was apparently hereditary. The dangers of my condition were made abundantly clear and I immediately began taking medication even before I left the office. The cardiologist called me every two hours under threat of hospitalization if my blood pressure didn’t drop significantly.

If I had not attempted to donate that day, something horrible may have happened and my husband could be raising our children by himself. I continue to donate blood and now my kids participate as well. It’s a wonderful way to give back to others. Plus, the life you may help save could be your own!

Bookmark and Share

Add your comments!

Name:

Email:

Location:

URL:

Remember my personal information

Notify me of follow-up comments?

Please enter the word you see in the image below:

Comments

  1. There is no number that causes a heart attack. So if your BP is say 236/120 for a few days nothing will happen. Or a brisk run or stress that drives up blood pressure for a few minutes or an hour is normal.

    Treat Blood Pressure | November 2009 | London

  2. Nice blog.  Like you, many of us suffer with high blood pressure.  Many people imply that high blood pressure is an emotional reaction.  But it’s not.  When an individual’s blood pressure is high without exertion or stress, this is cause for concern.  Many people do not know about high blood pressure and its danger.  I hope that people will be more aware after reading your blog and will be inspired to donate blood.  It is true that the life you may help save could be your own.  Thank you Lisa, you have written very well.

    Anon | December 2009

Copyright 2010 Blood Centers of the Pacific    Site by NetRaising