Has anyone been given any advice/information on whether or not an MMer should donate blood?  My only thought would be those on aspirin therapy might have some complications?
Thanks!
Chelsie

I haven't heard one way or the other.  I would contact one of your docs about this.

I know I have been urged to stay very hydrated so as to keep my blood at a high volume.  It seems that giving blood would greatly, even if temporarily, lower your total blood volume. But, I may be comparing apples and oranges?! :-/

Good luck and let us know if you find out anyadditional info on this topic!
Stephanie :D

I have not heard anything in particular, whether MMers can or can't give blood.  Has anyone with MM successfully given blood, pre- or post-surgery?  I can only speak from experience that when I "gave" blood for the first time last October, I don't think I got past 25 mL when they pulled the needle.  I went with a friend who was giving blood at the next cot.  She later told me that I went into convulsions and passed out.  All I remember was waking up and wanting to sleep and the guy wouldn't let me.  He was worried I'd go into unconsciousness.  I apparently passed out and threw up while passed out as when I woke up I was soaking wet (nasty wet!).  

I eventually recovered after an hour.  I asked him if I was able to donate and he laughed.  I said even half a pint?  He shook his head.  As I left, the nurse who was very helpful said, shaking her head, 'this is not for you. '  Essentially, thank you for the trauma, don't come back.  LOL  It was kind of funny.  In any case, I had a couple of small TIAs after that, but thought nothing of it.  It wasn't until my stroke in January that I put two and two together.  I mentioned it to Dr. Steinberg, and he didn't say anything either way, if I recall correctly, but I stated that I assumed I can't donate anymore (not that I really want to experience that again).  

My 2 cents,
Trina

Okay, hearing Trina's crazy, scary :o story I will reiterate that I think MM patients should not donate blood.  As a person who has trouble circulating blood to all areas of my brain, I don't think I want to have a shortage of blood, even if for a short time.  I say...The more blood running through my vessels the better! ;)

I must say though, I don't think I would be very altruistic in terms of blood donation, even if I were healthy.  So, maybe I am simply happy to find an easy excuse.  I know I am awful.  I am giving in other ways---I promise. ;;D  

TC, Stephanie   :)

Oh my Trina,

Sorry to hear about your experience! :-[  Bless your  [smiley=heart.gif] for your good intentions of wanting/trying to donate blood!  [smiley=hug.gif]

I agree with Stephanie and would suggest that one seeks advice from their doctor before volunteering to donate blood, especially with MM...better to be safe.   ;)  

[smiley=twocents.gif]
Take care,
Shan

Well, for those of you who see Dr. Steinberg, I e-mailed Teresa and she said they feel MMers should not donate blood.  So everyone's instincts were right!  Darn!   >:(My heart was in the right place!!!

I was told by my mother who works for a blood bank in FL that i could not give blood. Of course, i had problems giving blood before i was diagnosed with MM. Once i passed out and both times got real sick. The last time i was so sick i had to be admitted to the hospital. It really sucks because needle not bother me so i like giving blood but i agree that people with MM should probably not give blood. Since i cant give blood i try to talk other people into it that have never done it like my roommate.

Christy

I have been donating blood prior to being diagnosed.  I have already donated 4 gallons worth of my blood.  I know we have a blood drive coming up soon I will ask my doctor if I will be able to donate (I am not on any medications at this time).  I feel really good about donating.  Who knows...I may be one who will need some blood some day??? [smiley=confused.gif]

Jan