First, I want to thank you all for having a forum where one can get accurate information and support during these difficult times.

A bit about me: I am a 72 year old white male military veteran. My two tours in Vietnam left me 100% disabled. My disability consists of PTSD and loss of an eye. I have worked hard over the years since to overcome my acrophobia, which in the past has had me stay at home and completely isolated. I find it ironic that now I have easily fallen back into isolation with the blessings of the V.A. I have been totally isolated without Covid-19 symptoms in my NYC apartment with my 3 cats since March the 8th. I do not have a mask, nor any other protective gear.

That being said, this is not why I am writing. For the past several years I have been a consistent blood donor. I donate whole blood about every 2 months or so. The NY Blood Bank have pleaded with me to make plasma donations. I have shied away from doing so because I do not like anything going into my body. Take what wou want out, but do not put anything back in has been my feeling.

I am due to donate again at the end of April, and here is my question. Is it unreasonable for me to ask for a Covid-19 test, an antigen test, and a face mask as a condition? If given those 3 things, I would be willing to make a plasma donation, as creepy as that sounds to me. Surely the blood bank would need to know if I am infected, was infected, or am immune. So would I! The blood bank contacts with whome I have spoken with are schedulers, volunteers, and not medical experts.

As part of the donation process, after being hooked up, they take several test-tubes of blood for testing. It should be a no-brainer to do the Covid tests along with all the other tests they perform.

What say you medical experts on this list?

Best regards

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