I still have not taken, nor given blood (except, of course for lab testing). Not proud, just a fact.
In the mid-80's I had an serious argument with a close friend who worked for the Red Cross about why I wouldn't have a blood transfusion, nor why I wouldn't give blood. I then was still a little JW biased though I had been out a while, but this was during the early awareness of AIDs. I argued that there just weren't enough precautions in the (then) willy nilly use of blood in medicine, and that I just didn't trust it. I also didn't trust the Red Cross's stand that AIDs could not be transferred by transfusion.... Especially since Hepetitis could. She was adamant on the point that AIDs could not be, and the benefits outweighed the risks of the other bloodborne diseases. Years later I brought it up with her, and she profusely apologised for her stance. I told here that we all get propaganda on medicine and at the time, she was just doing what she was told.
Today, in case of a dire emergency I would, indeed take blood. In a serious surgury, I would give my own blood to be used if necessary. A very common practice now. Just please destroyed after the fact.
Today I don't give blood because I have FibroMyalgia with developing Inflamatory Disease. I need all my resources.
Kev gives blood as often as he can, as he has a sorta rare type (A- or some such). I highly support this though I have no influence. Though this last year he has been unable to give because we spent three days in a Malaria Zone in Mexico last December. He has had to keep his blood for a year...
I find the changes to the JW medical stance irritating, as with all their changes and so called New Light, albeit more practical. A JW Practical? Sorry, I guess I'm dreaming.
Hugs
Bren