Just do it!

July 15, 2010
St. Paul's Hospital
Going to have a blood platelet

I was sitting in an air conditioned room, trying to calm my breathing. I had a feeling that I would soon be next. I started to shake. I never really liked having blood platelet, especially if it's in the crease of your elbow. A child about 3-5 years old went before me. I was glad yet a bit sad. I started to cover my ears and close my eyes. Expecting to hear the child's cries and to see tears on his face. But lo and behold, after a few seconds, I never did hear any cries or shouts. When the child was done, I just looked at him. He looked bored, as if a needle hadn't just pierced his skin taking his blood. I felt ashamed. If a mere 3-5 year old child can do it then so can I. I took courage from that thought, I calmed a little.

When it was my turn, I started to shake and my heart's beating sounded like a hummingbird's wings. I reminded myself about the child. I eased up a little. My sister offered to hold my hand (the one that wasn't about to be injured), mocking me when I thought she was serious. Anyway, I took it and she really did comfort me (she was sooo sweet that time, I was touched). I suddenly felt a prick in the crease of my elbow and I looked away from it. It didn't really hurt much.

Before I knew it it was over, done, finished. I exhaled, relieved. Finally! I did it. I had faced my fears, and it felt good. I did great, but when I went back to my seat I started to shake again. I was still afraid if i had to do that again in the future. I guess some things never do change, it has been like this since I was little.