Biology Olympiad Intermediate

On Tuesday the 27th of June I did the Biology Olympiad but this time it was the intermediate level. It was fun to participate as it was good practice for applying biology knowledge, however again I didn't gain enough marks to be awarded with a score of 41/75

Parity Disco

On the 30th June I helped supervise Parity's charity disco for the disabled. I manned the food stall. As more and more people came in with their carers, the crisp bowls began to empty which kept me busy refilling!😃 There was also a tombola stand and an information stall for newcomers to advertise Parity's day care and other services. It was a lovely disco, it was lovely to see even those in wheelchairs busting out their moves on the dance floor. The disco lasted from 6:30-10pm where we then cleared away the balloons and food and anything else needing tidied. It was very sweet that I was given a box of chocolates as a thank you for helping! Parity's website click here

Donating Blood

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                             

EPQ Telomeres

I'm doing my Extended Project Qualification on Telomeres, and so I decided to make a separate blog to record everything related on there: http://telomereepq.blogspot.co.uk

Yesterday I interviewed a Lecturer/Doctor and on Monday I'll be going on a research trip! But I shall be writing about them on my other blog instead.

Care Home Updates: Training, Projects & Pimms

On the 31st of May, helped out at the care home for an afternoon in the sun where residents sat out in the balcony drinking pimms and eating crisps. I also finally got my induction pack and badge! I was so thrilled when Pam (one of the dementia residents) remembered who I was, guess my long hair is memorable!

On the 2nd June I finally got round to doing my e-learning in Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty, Data Protection, Employee Self Service and something else I don't remember..

Yesterday the 6th June I painted 3 ladies' nails and was giving the task of doing this years Scrapbook competition of each musical encounter the residents have had during their stay. Sounds like a hefty job but I'll try my best~~

Nails for the Residents

Spent my afternoon at the care home on Sunday the 13th May going around painting the ladies' nails and giving them manicures! It was the first time I did this activity with them and they seemed to really enjoy it so I hope to make it a regular occurrence soon! :)

Parity Family Fun Day

Really quick update as I've been gone the last month due to exams! Last month (30th April) Parity the charity let me help out again at their fun fayre where I ran the kids races consisting of sack race, egg and spoon..etc. I only did a 2.5hr shift which went by so quickly but it was so much fun to see all the kids happy and help raise money/awareness.