Exeter blood donors honoured

Dedicated blood donors from Exeter, who have potentially saved more than 1,000 lives between them, were recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant for their loyalty and commitment.

The four blood donors from Exeter, who had collectively made 407 donations, were honoured for their lifesaving efforts with commemorative medals at the ceremony at Dartington Hall, Totnes.

They joined 30 other blood donors from across Devon. All those at the ceremony had donated on at least 100 occasions.

Rose Northmore, 75, has been donating blood since she was 18, after hearing a programme on the radio.

Rose said: “Giving blood is a really worthwhile thing to do. I always feel so well after donating. I also received blood after my daughter was born in July 1963 so understand just how important giving blood is.”

David Lewis, 67, has been donating blood for 45 years after being encouraged by his mother who was a regular blood donor.

David said: “As soon as I was old enough my mother encouraged me to donate. I always get a warm feeling from giving blood and a friendly welcome from the staff. A close friend of mine was diagnosed with myeloma several years ago and received multiple transfusions. He is extremely grateful for the NHS treatment he received including the vital blood supplies.”

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people so if a donor has given blood 100 times they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 300 patients in local hospitals through donating blood. Out of the three per cent of the population who give blood just one per cent reach 100 donations.

Guest speaker Emma Lynas, 47, from Plymouth thanked donors for the 60 units of blood she received during a complicated labour when she had placenta percreta. Emma was in hospital for two months while she recovered and since receiving her transfusions has begun working as a nurse at Plymouth Donor Centre in Derriford Hospital.  

Emma said: “I would have died had I not received the 60 units of blood. My children would have lost their mother and their lives would have changed forever. It is thanks to blood donors and the skill of the doctors that my life was saved. My family are now huge advocates for NHS Blood and Transplant and my children will be donating blood when they are 17.” 

Karen Healy, Senior Marketing Coordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “These loyal donors are very special to us, which is why such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks. Between them, they have saved hundreds of lives and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions. These donors are an inspiration to us all.”

In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over 7 stone 12 lbs (50kg) and are aged between 17 and 66 (up to 70 if you have given blood before) you should be able to give blood. If you are over 70, you need to have given blood in the last two years to continue donating.

To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk