Prolific blood donors from Middlesex have been recognised for rolling up their sleeves to help save lives.
Three donors from Pinner and Stanmore were among 28 honoured at an awards event held by NHS Blood and Transplant at The Hilton London Green Park Hotel on Friday December 6.
Allan Thornton and Teresa Young, both from Pinner, had donated a staggering 100 times and Philip Bryson from Stanmore, 75 times.
The guest speaker was Justin Tepper, 39, who received two units of blood after he suffered a fractured right femur then collapsed with a broken leg and dislocated hip.
He said: "I like to help NHS Blood and Transplant for two reasons. Firstly, as I cannot donate blood myself, it enables me to give something back. Secondly, and possibly more importantly, I enjoy talking to current or prospective donors. Not only gives them the opportunity to see how blood donation can save lives, but it allows me to thank the donors who help hundreds of people when they do this simple altruistic act.”
Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people, so these blood donors may have helped to save or improve around 6,300 lives between them. .
Dominic Sutherland, Lead Donor Relations Manager at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: "We would like to thank these donors for their commitment and dedication. They are an inspiration to us all and we hope that others will follow in their footsteps. If these donors have inspired you, please register to donate now, as we always need new donors. It is such a simple act, but can make a huge difference to someone in need.”
In particular, November through to the New Year is typically a challenging time for blood stocks. Hospitals in England and North Wales will need up to half a million units of blood to see them through the period. However, Christmas shopping, the party season, and the general rush together with the extended public holidays mean taking the time to donate can slip off people’s to-do list, putting pressure on blood stocks.
A new radio advert, online campaign and short YouTube are being launched to remind the public why they should donate. Anyone aged between 17 - 65, weighing more than 50 kg (7 stone 12lbs) and in general good health could potentially start saving lives by becoming a blood donor. There is no upper age limit for donors who have donated in the last two years.
For more information or to book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk
