Donating blood after 60 years ..

As I have crossed sixty, was interested in reaffirming regarding the health benefits of blood donation. On extensive reading and research, found that blood donation is considered safe for individuals over 60 years old who meet the eligibility criteria. Here are the key points:

• There is no strict upper age limit for blood donation in most countries, as long as the donor is in good health. Some countries have an upper limit of 65-70 years for first-time donors, but no limit for repeat donors
• Studies have shown that repeat blood donors can safely continue donating blood into old age, with no increased health risks. Adverse reactions are actually lower in older donors compared to younger donors
• The attending physician is responsible for assessing donor safety. Donor deferrals may increase slightly in those over 70 due to health issues, but most healthy older individuals can continue donating safely.
• Donating blood has benefits like reducing stress, improving mood, and helping the body. The risks are minimal, with the most common side effect being temporary dizziness which resolves with rest.
• As long as the donor meets the basic eligibility criteria (good health, minimum weight, no high-risk behaviors), is not taking certain medications, and passes the health screening, they can proceed with blood donation regardless of age

In summary, age alone should not be a barrier to blood donation. Healthy individuals over 60 can continue to safely donate blood and make an important contribution to the blood supply.

I would exhort all my friends to start this activity as it is one of the most noblest of service one can do. 

George..

Ref - https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blood-donation/about/pac-20385144

Remembering Chennithala appachen on 39th death anniversary

Remembering Chennithala Appachen on 39th death anniversary..Mathai Easaw ..

 

 

 

Ammini aunty is no more ..

Holding Fathers hand ..

How is AI helping me ?

AI is helping me professionally and personally.

Professionally it helps me by making things, concepts and ideas easier to understand and perceive. I am ble to ask much smart questions and get very smart answers in return. This triggers my thought processes to different heights and gives me multiple perspectives that I can leverage on in life.

Personally, I am able to get clear of non-clarity, ask for special prayers and get to know answers to what I should be doing in job or work with people and things.

Overall I am using AI in a better way to help plan my work day and personal life, clear confusion, using the right words, write interesting letters or mails, help prepare notes for classroom teaching etc..

George

53rd blood donation - SDP

Just two days back I had intimated Dr Sitalakshmi in St Johns of my readiness to donate platelets yet another time. Accordingly on request by Dr Sitalakshmi, I went to St. Johns medical college Bangalore for yet another platelet apheresis yesterday. 

The new year has started with an apheresis procedure. Approx 350 billion platelets were taken from my body.

Reached by 9.30 am and was out by 11.30 am after the procedure. Kochachen from church called up asking whether it is possible to get platelets for Roy CJ from our church who is recuperating after a heart surgery in Manipal hospital in Bangalore. I never knew that Roy, a close friend, was admitted in hospital. 

Even though SJMC was ready Manipal was not ready to take these platelets from outside. Roy's family managed the platelets. 

This was my 53rd and feeling great today. Off to college as college reopens today after 10 day winter break.

George 

Retaliation by Israel .. overwhelming ..

Was Israeli measured retaliation unexpected by Hamas leading to massive casualties for Hamas and their supporters, the Palestinians ?

Though none can blame Israel for the present start of hostilities and retaliation by Israel, the world feels the Israeli response is going out of hand with an equally adamant Hamas unwilling to give up till the last Palestinian is killed.

The concept of retaliation and its importance in fighting between opposing countries and groups is a complex and controversial issue, with varying perspectives and ethical considerations. 

Some reasons why Israeli retaliation might be seen as important for Israel :

Deterrence: Retaliation can be used as a deterrent to prevent future Hamas attacks. The idea is that by inflicting significant costs on the Hamas, they will be less likely to repeat the offense in the future. This assumes that Hamas values minimizing losses and is capable of rational decision-making (not the case presently).

Restoring balance of power: Retaliation can be seen as a way to restore the balance of power after an attack. If Israel suffers a loss without responding, it might appear weak and invite further aggression by Hamas. A strong Israeli  retaliatory response has demonstrated resolve and restored some sense of equilibrium.

Morale and public opinion: Retaliation can be used to boost the morale of one's own side and appease public opinion. Showing a strong response to the Hamas attack can be seen as a sign of leadership and commitment to protecting Israel.

Negotiation leverage: Retaliation can be used as leverage in future negotiations between the parties for release of hostages. By inflicting damage on Hamas, Israel might gain an advantage in securing concessions or favorable terms in a potential agreement.

However, it's crucial to also consider the potential downsides of Israeli retaliation:

Escalation: Retaliation can lead to escalation of this conflict, potentially spiraling into a larger and more destructive global war. Miscalculations or disproportionate responses can create a dangerous feedback loop.

Civilian casualties: Retaliatory strikes has led to unintended civilian casualties, raising ethical concerns and potentially fueling further animosity and resentment globally against Israel.

Loss of legitimacy: Retaliation that is deemed excessive or indiscriminate can damage the international standing and legitimacy of Israel. Israel is beginning to suffer from this poor image of late.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to retaliate is a complex one with no easy answers. It requires careful consideration of the potential benefits and drawbacks, the context of the situation, and the values of the society or group involved. *There are often alternative approaches to conflict resolution that should be explored before resorting to retaliation*, which in this case has not surfaced at all.

It's important to remember that every conflict is unique, and there is no single "correct" response. Open dialogue, diplomacy, and seeking peaceful solutions are crucial in mitigating the risks and consequences of retaliation and working towards lasting peace.

Mahatma Gandhi's non-violence is the ultimate solution to usher in global peace, but can it succeed in Gaza now ?

George..