If any of our readers have ever been involved in an accident or had an operation where blood reserves were needed, you’ll be well aware of how vital the National Blood Service is.
With Christmas and New Year taking up many people’s attention, the service are aware that their reserves could suffer as a result and are urging Islanders who fit within the criteria (see below) to consider taking an hour out of their schedules to give blood.
The National Blood Service (NBS) will be holding donation sessions on the Island over the next three weeks with the first taking place in Ventnor tomorrow (Christmas Eve).
Fay Simcox, spokesperson for NHSBT said: “Blood stocks are used up in a matter of days so the NBS counts on people continuing to step forward to donate blood.”
“Certain blood products have a shorter shelf life than others. Platelets, a clotting factor used to help treat leukaemia and cancer patients, last for just five days. Red cells last a little bit longer at 35 days and are often transfused to patients suffering from severe anaemia or severe blood loss.”
“Therefore it’s vital that both regular and new donors come forward to give blood and ensure sufficient blood is available for patients.”
Criteria for donating blood
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. To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk
Other sessions include next Wednesday 30th at Ventnor Sports Centre and 7th January at Cowes Yacht Haven
