There is a Superman in our midst. Not the literal “man of steel” from Krypton who can run faster than a speeding train or leap tall buildings in a single bound. Its the person donating blood and saving lives with her or his life-giving fluid.

Donating blood, however, is not as simple as showing up at the bloodletting site and having it extracted from a vein in one’s arm.

SM Foundation Inc., which is holding a blood donation drive at SM malls nationwide from July to August, shares the following tips on preparing to donate blood.

1. Start months early with healthy habits

It’s best to prepare yourself several months in advance of donating to make the experience extra worthwhile. Eat iron-rich foods like spinach, beans, and lean meats. Skip any tattoos or piercings in the four months before donating.

2. Drink your water

Hydration is important when preparing for a blood donation, which should occur weeks or even months in advance. If you’re eyeing to donate, remember to keep your handy water bottle with you. Being hydrated prior to and on the day of blood donation helps keep your blood pressure steady and makes the process safer and quicker.

3. Get good sleep the night before

Aim for at least 7 to 9 hours sleep the night before to have a smoother donation.

4. Eat a good meal beforehand

Eat your hearty meals, but not greasy, and vibrant greens 2 to 3 hours before you donate. Remember, don’t donate on an empty stomach to help avoid feeling dizzy, lightheaded, fainting, and other adverse reactions due to a drop in blood sugar and blood pressure.

5. Wear comfy clothes with short sleeves

To ensure your arm remains accessible, wear loose clothing and a top that allows you to easily roll up your sleeves. Cozy clothes help you stay relaxed during the donation.

6. Bring ID and your donor card

You’ll need identification at most donation sites. Some places also ask for your blood donor card. Remember to keep them handy!

7. Skip the intense workouts

For now, skip the runs or your workouts. It’s best not to engage in any hardcore gym sessions before or right after donating.

8. It’s okay to feel nervous

The sight of a needle or blood or just the excitement of spreading social good might make you feel giddy, and that’s all okay. Just talk to the nurses, doctors, and other volunteers at the site, and they’ll be more than happy to help you calm down and relax.

9. Got existing conditions?

Let your doctors and health professionals on site know.

If you have any medical conditions or are taking medications, it’s important to let both your doctor and the blood donation staff know ahead of time.

Some conditions or meds might affect your eligibility or how you feel afterward. Don’t worry — this step isn’t meant to discourage you, but to make sure the process is safe and comfortable for you. Transparency helps protect both you and the people receiving the donation.

10. Tell someone about it!

Sharing the experience can calm nerves and make it more exciting. Better else, encourage others to also donate blood.

If you or your friends are ready to donate blood, the SM Foundation’s blood donation schedule are follows.

July 2025

SM Savemore Market Tacloban

SM City BF Parañaque

18 July

SM City Calamba

SM Seaside City Cebu

19 July

SM Seaside City Cebu

20 July

SM City Sta. Rosa

21 July

SM City Iloilo

22 July

SM CDO Downtown Premier

28 July

SM City Cebu

SM Megamall

28-29 July

SM Marilao

29 July

SM City Clark

30 July

SM City Bacoor

SM San Jose del Monte

31 July

August 2025

SM City San Fernando Downtown

SM East Ortigas

8 August

SM City San Pablo

9 August

SM City Cauayan

15 August

SM City Sucat

20 August

SM Manila

SM Marikina

22 August