I've donated blood thrice. After the third time, I got a letter stating that they had to throw out my previous two donations because of elevated levels of a blood protein associated with Hep-B (and obesity, and half a dozen other things not an issue with blood donation). I was asked to not donate anymore.
Since my last donation, I have found out that the particular test which deferred me is no longer being used to to an unacceptable level of false positives. If I wished, I could petition to have the deferral expunged.
Of course, there are now other issues that they consider dispositive which prevent me from donating, despite independent testing verifying that those issues do not make my blood unsafe. A change on one controversial question in the questionnaire would allow me to donate again. If the change is made, I would donate. Until then, there's no reason for me to try.
I've been phlebotomized several times over the years, and I have no problem watching the puncture and draw. I believe I watched the puncture and draw at least once during my three donations.
no subject
Since my last donation, I have found out that the particular test which deferred me is no longer being used to to an unacceptable level of false positives. If I wished, I could petition to have the deferral expunged.
Of course, there are now other issues that they consider dispositive which prevent me from donating, despite independent testing verifying that those issues do not make my blood unsafe. A change on one controversial question in the questionnaire would allow me to donate again. If the change is made, I would donate. Until then, there's no reason for me to try.
I've been phlebotomized several times over the years, and I have no problem watching the puncture and draw. I believe I watched the puncture and draw at least once during my three donations.