Another stretcher subscriber suggested "donating plasma" for extra cash.  I did this in college.  I was talking to my brother about doing this again for extra cash which is much needed right now (for bills, clothes, savings).  His reaction was "Are you that desperate?".  I changed the conversation.  He tends to criticize my life at times and I wish I hadn't said anything to begin with.

Is there stigma about donating plasma or is this just my brother being judgemental as always.

Give my your thoughts about donating plasma.

I called the center and they told me to come early the first time, they seemed nice on the phone.

 

Carmina 

I don't see a thing wrong with it. My brother has done it quite often. They need plasma and they're willing to pay for it; why not?  

 I have mentioned before that we managed on a low income in the past and actually was able to save money. My husband selling plasma is how I was able to tuck a little each month into savings. 

As Pat said, if they are willing to pay and it's safe/healthy then why not. It's really no different than selling some unwanted item with value or doing things like selling eggs to make a little extra. 

 

People who need cash to feed addictions sometimes resort to donating plasma which is probably the association your brother is making when he made such a comment. Disregard his comments. Its a worthy and practical way to help yourself and others.

 The only problem I have with it is that I'm needle phobic as all get out. I don't have a problem with other people selling their plasma (even dh if we had a place near us) to make somemuch needed cash.

They do a thorough check up the first time.  I was thinking of drug addicts going to this place but I doubt they will be approved, don't you think?  When I did this in college (about 15 years ago), I don't remember seeing bums, mostly college students. 

Carmina

 Plasma can save lives....what better thing than to help someone and help yourself. Babs

 

Carmina:

I don't remember seeing bums, mostly college students

The one my husband used to draw a lot of the lower paid people in the health/medical field...the pharmacy techs, lower level lab techs, delivery people, housekeeping at the hospital, ect.

 

 When we lived near Lafayette, IN (home of Purdue University), Les donated plasma quite often.  We were living on just my income as a temp employee and needed it to survive.  There were lots of college students doing it when he was there.  I'd stay out in the waiting room or go to the little park across the street with our kids while he was donating.  It took a long time but sure helped us.  I, personally, do not see a thing wrong with it and if there was a place nearby where I could do it, believe me, I'd be there as often as they'd let me!

Does donating plasma affect one physically? I've seen people have to lie down just after putting the needle in when giving blood because they went weak. I couldn't give blood in high school because I didn't weigh "at least 110". I almost needed a blood transfusion after giving birth because I lost so much blood and almost passed out. I don't have a fear of needles, I just think I might get sick if I tried to give blood, much less plasma. I'd probably have to travel 45 minutes to donate plasma anyway. There are Blood Mobiles around here often, so I could do that if I would.