I've donated blood pretty much all of my adult life but I started donating red blood cells (RBCS, or "double-reds") a little over 4 years ago. It takes a while given the fact that you can only donate every 112 days, but last month I finally hit pretty cool milestone:
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I used to give blood all the time. In the military they gave you the rest of the day off, cookies, and juice. Five years ago, now retired from the military, I was told that being stationed in Germany in the '80s meant I could no longer give blood. Something about mad cow; I kid you not. That explains a lot about me, eh? ;o)
Hey Jim. That would be correct. I think the question is, "have you spent more than 3 months in Europe during [some time period]?" That and taking bovin insulin will get you discounted as well.
I have my own little tradition going. Firstly, I make sure they have Nutter Butters in stock at the Center. Failure to comply results in a deal breaker and I take my toys and go home.
Afterwards, I go by the closest BBQ place I can find and get pick up a pound of sliced brisket ( sans mad-cow, of course ) and snack on that the remainder of the day ( and usually the next ).