It was unsheathed. The area to be penetrated was rubbed with cleansing fluid, slightly lubricating the area.

I looked away as it came towards me, the moment of penetration was at hand. The pain at first was sharp, but died away quickly. I could see blood....

You all know what I am talking about...

I gave blood yesterday. It didn't go too badly. My iron count was good and it took just over ten minutes for the required amount to pour out of my body.

I sat down after with a pint of squash and some biscuits. After ten minutes I was feeling no ill effects so was thinking of going when all of a sudden it hit me. A wave of light headiness followed by a feeling of sickness and cold sweats. I immedietely let the nurse that was nearby know and she had me lay on my back with my legs raised.

Within five minutes I was feeling fine again, drinking another pint of squash. A few minutes later, my partner came over (it's only five minutes from my house) to walk back with me, to be sure I didnt faint on my own. Thankfully I didnt faint and the rest of the evening went by fine, if feeling tired.

I feel good for giving blood at last. Maybe I'll help someone pull through an op or recover after an accident. Or maybe my blood won't get used in the 52 or however many days they can keep it. Either way, there is still that chance I have made that wee bit of a difference to someone :)