So I've started donating plasma at the local Biolife Center. I wish I could say I was doing it to save lives or for the medical advances that my donation will assist with, but really, I'm more concerned with getting my money. I want to know what the special incentive is each month to ensure I will make my two donations a week. How much money can I make in one month donating plasma? How fast can I make my donation? Time is money. I'm watching the guy next to me who was already started before I came in. I am pumping plasma far faster than him. I passed him up in the first 10 minutes. Obviously someone forgot to hydrate today. I mean, I know it isn't a competition but I'm pumping like a pro on my 3rd visit. And when I scan my finger on the sensor on my way out, I see a $40 addition to my Biolife Visa.
I find that I am far more concerned with what I eat now that I am donating. And not because I care about the quality of my plasma. Having been a vegetarian for the past 11 years, I have always been deficient in my iron and protein counts. I was never too concerned. but now, now it is worth money to take care of myself. I watch my protein and iron levels, try to stay healthy, avoid drinking before a donation day, because if I don't take care of myself, I won't get paid.
And let's pause a moment to discuss the word donation. All the people in Biolife from the phlebotomists to the medical historians to the other donors, call it a plasma "donation." And yes, I am willingly giving my plasma, but in exchange for money. It is similar to my arrangement with the Cofrin Library. I "donate" my time and skills for 8-10 hours a day and they pay me. But in that situation we don't call it a donation, we call it a job. So while it nice and every one feels good calling it a donation, is it really?
Who cares though, I got my $40. And I'm thinking I'll add this to my resume under volunteer experience.
