Platelets: The Second Time

Today was great, so much better than last time. This is, I think, because I was prepared. I dressed differently, as if it was the winter, because I knew I would get cold. I had 12 podcasts and lots of music on my mp3 player. I started with U2's Beautiful Day. Great start! I was comfortable and had something to do. This made a world of difference. Time flew by this time. I was never uncomfortable. Heck, I felt like I was on a high at the beginning! It felt awesome to do this and actually feel comfortable doing it. I can sincerely say that I enjoyed it.

I learned that my platelet count last time was 287 and that last time’s donation was enough for two infusions, not three like I had been told. Fine, it is still more than worth it to me, as long as the platelets go to people who need them. I am not doing this so they go to researchers or to waste! Shelf life is only five days. Unfortunately, there is no way to know where my platelets end up, but I trust that they are going to someone who can use them.

10:20 and Ari is still up. Things are not pretty here tonight. I have nursed her three times and she will not settle down. I am guessing it is because of the shortbread cookies I had at Red Cross around 3:30. I guess I should have starved instead… Feeling not so bright right now… Wish us luck. Lots of crying right now.