We get it – the thought of needles or blood can make anyone a little queasy. But here’s the thing: donating blood is much less intimidating than it sounds — and it's essential to the well-being of our community. The fear of pain is one of the biggest reasons people hesitate, but the actual experience is quick and relatively painless. That got us thinking...
Think Giving Blood Hurts? Think Again!
Our Blood Institute is here to shatter the myth that donating blood is a painful ordeal. Spoiler alert: It's not! In fact, the only thing that might hurt is missing out on the chance to be a hero.
What Really Hurts?
Here are a few everday things that are WAY more painful than a blood donation.
Now, THOSE sound painful.
And there's many more. Tripping over your child's toy... that you've already told them to put away! Putting hand sanitizer on a fresh paper cut. Staring at a mountain of paperwork on a Monday morning. Donating blood is a walk in the park compared to these everyday occurrences — and it has a much bigger impact, too.
Why Are You Telling Me This?
We'll keep this brief: Blood donations are crucial for patients in need of surgeries, cancer treatments and emergency care. Our Blood Institute needs 1,200 blood donations every day to ensure that patients in hospitals across Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas have what they need, when they need it. That's where you come in.
Patients Need You — Today.
Summers can be tough for blood banks. Many of our regular donors are off enjoying well-earned vacations, school breaks and summer festivities. But while they're soaking up the sun, the need for blood doesn't take a holiday. Every two seconds, someone needs blood — and the supply must be constantly renewed. Timely donations are critical during the summer months, especially around holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day.
Blood Donations Is Quicker Than You Might Think!
We all seem to be busier than ever, and that might be an understatement! But did you know that from the time you check-in to the last bite of your FREE post-donation snacks, it only takes about one hour to give blood?
It reall is that quick, easy and pain-free.
Not only will you be a hero for local patients, you'll also get a free mini-health check, including blood pressure, hemoglobin levels and a general health assessment.
Your donation makes a difference.
Every time you donate blood, you're giving so much more. Learn about the need for blood donations from a patient who has benefitted from these lifesaving gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about your eligibility to donate blood? We've got you covered.