I identify with this something fierce- the first time I got a blood test, I passed out and had a seizure! Turns out I have an inherent reaction to the whole process- I've had to get a dozen bloodtests since, and it's really difficult for me- now when I have a bloodtest they have to play music for me, cover my eyes, and I have to lay down the whole time. I'm never going to be able to give blood, even though I want to... I'm glad your reaction wasn't worse- or they could have done serious damage, leaving it in you like that!!

#31, what the heck do you mean, panic attacks aren't a real thing? Do you mean they're psychological, and not physical...?

Why didn't you take it out yourself, then, you pussy?!

I understand that it's for a "good cause," but the nurse/phlebotomist or whomever taking your blood was SUPPOSED to stop drawing blood if you felt or actually had a panic attack. I am aware that it is their job to get the blood that they need once they enter, but I find it unethical that they would continue to draw blood clearly when you told them to stop. -_- And #26, that is NOT the only time that it stings. I just finished my medical program and believe me, if the person drawing blood does not hit the vein the first time and wiggles the needle around to find it, then it is sure to cause some hematoma and slight to much discomfort. I know a lot of times when I was getting my blood taken, I could feel it in my arm and feel the stinging/pinching of the needle. And the bleeding time doesn't matter. Once they pop the tourniquet and pull the needle out, they place a cotton ball over the site which should be held there with pressure for at least ten seconds. I know I bleed a lot, but it goes away after ten seconds.

we need more blood. i'm glad they stole it from you. Were YOU using it? No.

Apparently no one told you how absolutely desperate the red cross is for blood. But congradulations, you just saved a couple lives. I donate at least twice a year.

It's the guy's blood, and if under any circumstance he chooses to change his mind, or got a "panic attack" I think they should immediately stop. You can't take blood from someone against their will. How unprofessional. And yes, it would save someone's life, and I believe it was his first intention, but why force him after he got a panic attack and changed his mind? No one is obliged to do so, and just because they got a donor, doesn't mean they should take advantage of him. I swear, it's sickening.

YDI and good job Red Cross! Let's hope they give that blood to someone who is more deserving of it. Panic attack... pfft... just another excuse to be a pussy.

she put a needle in your arm and then left the room? ummm.....okay

During my internship we used to do blood donations, I can understand why the nurse/technician did not withdraw the needle at once, because that would've wasted first the bag, then the fact that the needle was already in and all you have to do is wait for the bag to be filled, all that pain and effort for nothing. Like what you've said, it was just a panic attack (due to the size of the needle probably, and not some hypovolemic shock due to "loss of blood" which is dangerous). If the nurse saw some signs that you are in REAL distress, I think she would've taken the needle out. AND, you got off okay, you probably helped somebody with your blood, you didn't die/faint in the middle of the procedure, CLEARLY nothing to be afraid of, and most importantly, nothing to whine about.