1. The screening seems to get more involved every time. Don't be too disappointed if you're are turned away.
2. Don't do any extreme exercise before. It will lower you blood volume and can get you rejected.
3. I don't know if it pshycosomatic, but from the day after and for a few more days, I feel great. I understand that the donation stimulates replacements. I think I feel better because of the new blood.
4. I hate the follow-up calls a few weeks later from the Red Cross trying to get me to book an appt.
5. It is a cheap way to find out if you iron levels are good. They'll also let you know if tests they run turn up anything you should know about.
A+