I've done it three times.
Twice back at my High School and a third time near my college because they called me to inform of a blood donation event taking place just minutes away.
I would have done more cause I put myself on their "Call me whenever something else pops up" list, but they never followed up on it.
I should probably go on their website now and check for myself.
All three times I donated though I got delayed because apparently my body temperature was too high the first time, so I'd always have to wait 15 minutes and test it again to see if it lowered.
I really wish I could donate blood, but I'm absolutely terrified for needles piercing my skin. I already have big troubles when just getting vaccinated, which takes around 10 sec, so sitting there for 10+(?No idea how long it really takes) minutes with a needle in my arm would probably make me cry -_-'
With blood donations you also spend that 10 minutes or so seeing your blood rush out of your arm, down pips and piling up into three seperate blood bags.
So if needles on it's own scares you? Blood Donations probably aren't a good idea, because they take that shit to another level.
I admit to not being nearly as understanding of phobias because I don't really have any, it's an experience I can't relate to, even though I try to understand how somebody feels when they're reacting to something they have a phobia of.
I don't have any phobias, but I have a pet peeve that works on a similliar "Logical reasoning doesn't help" idea that redblood mentioned.
Sharing germs, I can't stand drinking out of the same straw, cup, or eating out of the same bowl, untensils etc. as other people.
It freaks me the hell out, I know it's generally harmless but it makes me go "Gah!".
There are two exceptions where I seem to able to overcome it though.
1) If in a relationship. Note this hasn't happened for over 2 years now, but I've found when in a relationship I don't have issues doing the stuff detailed above strictly with that other person.
I think this is because I recognize that kissing shares far more germs, so the other actions by comparison is mere child's play.
2) Little cousins. When you have a 2 year old cousin trying to share a fork full of cake with you, but with a fork they just used?
God dammit I just can't say no to her and make her feel rejected like that! :(