This is a bit silly.

[sbctwin]

Congrats Firenze11 on duing this needed service. I, for one, am appreciative of the fact that you have been able to overcome your fears and do this. I have not been able to. I was prepared to do it a year ago. I had friends from work who went with me and I was ready, though scared. They took my temp and found I had a fever (but was not sick) and so they could not do it that day. I have not had the courage to return. I, too, am very scared of needles. For my yearly physical, I have a wonderful doctor that can draw my blood. I have fainted before at the sight of a needle and need to lie down, but alas, I am too scared to perform this needed service. I well hydrate before the event, but my veins are small and tough to draw from and so my fear conquers me. Good luck...let us know how it goes....

[Tri Girl]

Congrats on conquering your fears!!
It's not silly at all- in fact, it'll be such an empowering thing that you're facing it head on. Good for you!

+1 on looking away

I always also ask for 2 ice packs- one for the front of my chest/neck and one for the back of my neck. I have gotten light headed in the past from donating, and after blacking out once (many years ago), I always do this. I don't know that it's really necessary now (I think I was really dehydrated that day), but I think it's more mental than anything. If I know they're there, I never have a problem.
I also drink a gatorade while I'm donating to make sure I'm putting something in my belly during the process.

And the thing that grosses me out the most? The warm tube that lays on your arm leading down to the bag gathering the blood. That oooges me out more than anything (even more than the needle). I usually put a couple kleenexes under that spot so the warm tube o' blood isn't touching my skin. Man- that makes me sound like I have serious mental issuues, huh?

[SouthernBelle]

Interestingly, I have to look when I get stuck. Make sure you are warm, it seems to make the veins easier to hit.

From one who has little rolly veins,

[Zen]

You are to be commended for donating a much needed commodity.

Before I became too sick for it I was a frequent donor. I've been stuck so many times it just doesn't phase me anymore. Actually I figure if I'm watching they'll be more careful.
Maybe you could get a sewing needle and poke yourself a few times just to get used to the sensation.

I'm probably not the best person to get advice from.