I live in the UK and I donated blood yesterday. I don't live in a major city, so we don't have a donation centre, we just have the donation team set up in a room at the local football club, or in the local theatre every couple of weeks.
Talking to the nurse beforehand I mentioned that I tried to donate a few weeks earlier, but the nurse couldn't hit a vein so apologized and asked if I could rebook a new appointment on the phone asap. The new nurse looked at my details and said that although that session was fully booked, they had squeezed me in as I was O neg blood type, which is the one they can use for anybody no matter their blood group, thus is in high demand. She looked even closer then said "oh, you are also CMV negative, you are really in demand!!"
I had never been told about the CMV neg before and asked what that meant. It turns out that roughly 70-80% of adults have been exposed to the CMV virus, a flu type virus which stays in your body for life, a bit like cold sore virus does. Does no harm, but they can't use their blood for people with no immune system as it can be fatal.
She basically said, there is a very high chance your blood always goes to Neonatal units, your blood can be given to babies, even unborn ones who may need a transfusion in the womb. Because their immune system is still developing, there is no risk to them as you are CMV neg. Add in the fact you are O neg as well and ANY baby can have your blood, you are part of a very, very small percentage.
My daughter is 6 months pregnant at the moment, so that REALLY hit home.
Just a chance conversation, but it has really made me realise even more just how important donations are, and how crucial they can be to save someones life, even that of an unborn baby.
I already knew I was helping others by donating, very probably saving lives, but walking out of there yesterday knowing what I then knew, I had a tremendous feeling of pride in what I was doing. I have only been donating for 5 years, and wish I had started years ago now.