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 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

Oh my Trina,

Sorry to hear about your experience!  Bless your   for your good intentions of wanting/trying to donate blood!  

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.    


Take care,
Shan

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