Woman Donates Blood Plasma to Cover Manicure, Pedicure and Lash Expenses
A woman sharing content on TikTok has sparked a viral discussion after revealing that she donates blood plasma each month to cover the cost of her pricey self-care routine, which includes pedicures, manicures, and lashes.
On March 21, Taya, who posts content under the username @so.chantell, shared her savvy hack and way of giving back in a now-viral TikTok video that has garnered over 1.6M views 104.1K likes.
Her video is simple, TikTok users see Taya donating her plasma at a donation facility. Her onscreen caption reads, "When donating plasma pays for my nails, toes, and lashes monthly."
While her video is straightforward, her message is not.
The U.S. is currently experiencing a blood and plasma shortage, and many companies are increasing the compensation payout, hoping to encourage more donations.
Many see Taya's story as a win-win situation benefiting many people. However, others were new to the concept of plasma donation and were unaware of the payouts available for their contribution.
Many viewers asked why this financially rewarding good deed is not often discussed. Others thanked her for donations describing how she is saving lives.
"I don't know why more college kids don't do this. I get $800 a month, pays my rent," says one TikTok user.
"I would not [be] here without people like you," comments another user. "I have sickle cell anemia and need many blood transfusions. I love you for giving."
A third TikToker adds, "Thanks for donating. It always helped my dad and many other people."
Money.com reports, the financial benefit of plasma donation is around $50 to $75 per donation. The Red Cross allows people to donate plasma every 28 days, or 13 times a year, while private donation organizations set their own institutional standards.
Donations can help many donors fatten their wallets. However, some argue that the compensation is insufficient considering how much blood plasma costs patients who need it.
"They should pay people more $ because it is sold for much," says a TikToker whose comment was followed by an Australian user who explained that payouts aren't the standard in their country.
"In Australia, you do it for free to help people you don't get paid," says the user.
In many countries, it is not legal to offer monetary compensation in exchange for plasma donation. However, according to NPR, the U.S. is one of five countries worldwide that allow payouts for plasma.
Taya is not the only TikTok creator who shares her story of plasma donation. The hashtag #donateplasma has an explosive 16M views and can be a helpful way for anyone running low on funds to make a little more cash.
Are you hoping to make little extra cash and give back? Then, link up at the American Red Cross to see donation facilities in your area by clicking HERE.