We are the busiest platelet collection center in the military (mostly because we are open 7 days a week). They like folks with large veins (which I have on both arms). It's easy, lay there and squeeze a ball when the blood pressure cuff is inflated. Problem happens when too much calcium & other electrolytes are pulled out of your system. I started getting numb. My jaw hurt also. Chewed 5 tums and drank most of a gatorade to help. But my hand still got very sore by the end of the 6 cycles. Fortunately the recover was pretty quick. I'm on the books to donate again in 3 weeks. I'll premedicate with the calcium supplement early in the day.
