My Valentine's Gift

For most, blood is easily equated with life. For blood-phobics, the sight of blood slithering out of an open cut is usually associated with the loss of life, even at times of spirit. A more intimate study of Bram Stoker's Dracula represents blood as man's suppressed libido, the blood sucking could even be considered as the sexual act itself with an imaginary being, the ideal and desirable Count being the partner. Blood is seen in many ways, as death, as life, as sex, as victory in a war, as sanctity in the bible... and here is my valentine's gift for myself, blood to represent all and none.

As a Valentine's treat, I decided to donate my blood (Type A, Positive). There is a yearly event in our university which encourages us to donate our "green" blood and be a modern day hero. A couple of years ago, I was not approved to give away my blood since I had a very low hemoglobin count. At present, despite my monthly visitor, my results proved to be satisfying.

When the attendant pushed in the needle, it reminded me of a straw stuck within my skin, and thick blood went flowing through the tube connected to it. I was asked to open and close my first so that the blood would keep flowing. My friend, Masi was beside me the whole time as support. He was indeed a good peer who constantly kept me on guard. When I suddenly became whoozy and nauseous, the attendant suggested to remove the needle since that sort of reaction is not healthy. I managed to give out 300+ cc, which was not bad at all.

Although it was recommended that I stay in bed for ten to fifteen minutes, my monthly visitor was such a bitch that I had to go to the bathroom. Masi helped me, and although I tried to look well and jumpy, I was really getting drowsy. It felt like all my energy was going down from my head to my feet. When I got in, I had to sit down on the toilet for five minutes or more because if I don't I feel certain that I would faint. When I returned to the blood letting section, I was requested to lie for fifteen minutes although that proved to be of no particular benefit since I feel thoroughly refreshed from the experience. I got a pink tumbler, a brownie and a juice drink for my deed. I need to rejuvinate for the next two days - drinking lots of fruit juices and liquids and getting enough rest. I think I gave the attendant a handful this morning, but this first time experience of blood letting was worth it.

Happy Valentine's Day folks!