On the 21st of June it was my first day giving blood, 4 days after turning 17 after waiting for years to be old enough. The nurses were so kind and they made me eat food beforehand to make sure my sugar levels were good. They also had to prick my finger and see if it floated or sunk in water to test for iron levels. If the blood sinks to the bottom within 15 seconds, hemoglobin levels are good enough to carry on with the donating procedure. It was a long waiting period, but I didn't mind as it was a good sign that so many people were giving blood. When it was my turn, I was told to use my right arm as my vein was bigger on that side (and the nurse had trouble finding my small veins). It only took 8 minutes for me (max 90 minutes so I'm so thankful my blood is fast
😋) I have to admit- it did hurt. It felt like a nettle sting but the only problem was that it wouldn't fade away as you have to constantly squeeze/contract your muscles to mechanically push the blood out. However, I feel the more I donate, it will eventually feel painless! I was the only young person there as well which made me feel a little bit proud. 
On the 8th of July, I also got a text saying which hospital my blood was sent to. I like the idea of these texts, it makes me feel really happy it's in use and more "real" DONATE: https://www.blood.co.uk
