Where can I donate blood if I'm American and I can't donate it in America?!?

Question

I can't donate blood in the US because there are a ton of stupid regulations in place saying that because I've spent so-and-so years in Germany and was born there in 1990 I'm not eligible.

It's really a shame because I've lived here in the states for a decade, I definitely don't have mad cow disease (which is why those restrictions are in place), and I really want to help save lives. I know I can help a ton of other ways but I feel a slight pang of jealousy whenever we have blood drives at school and I see other kids wearing the 'bandage of honor'. I'm probably never going to know what it feels like.

So my question is, am I barred from giving blood anywhere? I'm not German, so can I still donate there? Or are those stupid restrictions ever going to be lifted here in the U.S.?

Answer 1

It's great that you want to help others in this way, but the regulations are in place to protect others who are very sick against the possibility of any type of blood infection.  While you're apparently healthy, the best advice is to find another way to help - sign your driver's license as an organ donor, get involved in volunteer organizations, participate in fundraisers, etc. Maybe you can assist the screening staff at at blood drive instead of giving. There are a lot of things that you can do to help, and you don't need to "advertise" it with a silly sticker. People will know that you care by your willingness to help out and a caring attitude toward others.