Tara Wants To Donate Blood

We drove by the Red Cross a few times today when I was running errands. We could see that they were having an open house and blood drive. Tara asked me why do they want people's blood. I explained to her that they use a needle to fill up a bag of blood from people like us who can donate it and they use it to give to people who are injured and have lost a lot of their own blood. Tara was fascinated over this. She kept asking questions and then tells me that she wants to go there to give them some of her blood. I laughed out loud but then realized that she was really serious.

I knew she needed to be older but I didn't know how to explain it to her so my first option was to give her the details. I explained the needle in the arm and the entire bag of blood and that she may feel wheezy, etc. She didn't care. Tara explained to me that needles don't bother her. She goes on to remind me that she just visited the Allergist who did a whole series of needles on her back and the 10 larger needles in her arms. She is right and everyone in that office that day was very proud of her because most kids freak about the allergy testing, not her though. So my scare tactic didn't deter her from wanting to give blood. I was then a little lost for words. We then we decided to stop at the Red Cross and she can ask them herself (she wasn't sure if I was correct)

They were really surprised by her and it took a few people before they found one to explain it to her. They told her that her body needed her own blood to grow and that she wouldn't have enough until she was done growing. They gave her a Popsicle and talked with her about all of it. She finally understood and was fine with it for now but I can guarantee, she will be at their door asking to finally donate once she turns 17. While we were there, we ended up learning a little bit about CPR, First Aid, and Disaster planning. They loaded Tara up with a Rubbermaid tub of disaster supplies which included a flash light, blanket, lots of water bottles, and a few other things. She walked away today feeling satisfied but still wanted to give her blood.

I told her how proud I am of her. She has a deeper meaning of life than most 6 year old's. This might come from the things that she sees and hears. Like last night, Terry was called out to a motorcycle accident. The police radio was on and we heard details like the AeroMed Helicopter having to come. This is the moment that we begin to pray since this means the person is struggling to live. With this happening last night and by me explaining why blood is needed, she wanted to help. I've always known that Tara was special in her own way and this is just another reminder.