Every three months or so, depending on circumstances, health, or holiday, I go and give blood. It has always seemed like a good thing to do, costs me nothing but a bit of time… and a pint or so of my blood. What was it Hancock said, “An armful”? If you’ve never done it and you can, you should, you really should. In the States and other parts of the world, a donor is paid for this service; here, it is entirely done by volunteers—an extraordinary thing when you think about it. Every operation and A&E dept. depends on something that has been given, no strings attached, for the common good. This is surely how every society should be.
In the past, you gave blood and that was that, but nowadays we get texts telling us where and how our blood has been used, and on a bad day, getting an unexpected text telling you that you have contributed to helping someone is a real boost. However, the actual act has changed little. You arrive at a hall or community centre, sign in, and then wait to be called. In order to retain some privacy during any conversations between staff and donors, there is always a commercial radio station playing quite loudly over a PA. It is awful, and I have to constantly remind myself that the pain is worth it. Then you’re called forward, and after a few questions, sat in a chair, reclined and then drained of the requisite pint. It can take between five and fifteen minutes. My slowest being twelve and my fastest five and a half.
In recent years, the commercial radio has become too much to bear, and so my donation listening lists began. These only last a maximum of fifteen minutes, and all must comply with the theme. Therefore, no cheating, no “Blood on the Tracks” side one or “If You Want Blood…” side two. No, these have to be individual songs. This week’s donation was eight and a half minutes (not bad for me), and the songs were:
‘Pump It Up’ – Elvis Costello 3.14
‘Blood of an American’ – Bobby Wright 4.20
‘Needle’ – Treetop Flyers 5.00
‘In Vain’ (I know, but it made me laugh) – Lancaster Orchestra 4.42 (unused)
So why not give blood? It’s a great way to make playlists!
So, this week you have Bobby Wright and Treetop Flyers for your listening pleasure. The radio show has been on fire recently, and this week is no exception. Please enjoy some Little Feat, Corey Hanson, Greazy Alice, Ryan Davis, Kathleen Edwards, and many more. As ever…
