Gallivanting across the globe seems glamorous. I love exploring new countries and cultures but there is a downside and I wasn’t until the blood mobile showed up at my place of employment.
My grandmother was a multi-gallon blood donor and although she inspired me with her endless generosity, I never really had the opportunity to donate, there was always some excuse. A few years ago I finally decided to do it when the blood mobile was in the office parking lot.
I was handed a form and asked a series of questions. When the question about traveling out of the country came up, when I learned who is ineligible I was shocked.
Thirteen months prior I had traveled to an area outside of Guadalajara, Mexico, which meant I could donate blood that day. Had it been 11 months, I would have been denied.
I had a medley of health issues up until December or so last year and decided it was time to donate again. When asked if I had traveled outside the country I answered truthfully.
“Yes.”
I had traveled for a week to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I was politely denied the opportunity to donate and told to wait a year.
Two weeks ago I was contacted by the local blood center saying my rare blood type was in need and I explained my willingness but was denied. Monday, following the horrific bombings in Boston, an email landed in my box inviting me to donate. I would have loved to, it would have made me feel as though I was able to do something but I would have been denied. *sigh*
Since I have two more trips to Brazil planned this year, it looks as though September 2014 is the earliest I can give.
A part of me feels a bit guilty. Albeit this travel to Brazil is for work, a selfish act impacts a selfless opportunity.
We all know traveling abroad rocks but what are the negatives?
