Blood donors thanked for helping save lives (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Blood donors thanked for helping save lives

1:00pm Wednesday 10th March 2010 in

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BLOOD donors in Hampshire have been praised for their role in saving lives.

The total number of donations made by the 143 Hampshire donors who attended a special thank-you event is 12,269 and it is estimated that they could have helped up to 36,807 people in Hampshire, as each donation can potentially save up to three lives.

The recipients may need blood following an accident, during an operation, or as part of their treatment. Transfusions from donated blood have also improved the quality of life for terminally-ill patients.

Hampshire County Council chairman Councillor Tim Knight has been a blood donor for 45 years.

He said: “The importance of blood donation is often something that goes unrecognised by people until their moment of urgent need, and it’s only right that we show our immense gratitude for their vital contributions.”

The National Blood Service needs to collect 7,000 units of blood every day, yet only four percent of the eligible population give blood.

Christopher Beadle, from Basingstoke, has given 86 whole blood donations.

He said: “I intend to continue donating blood for as long as I can and think everyone who is able to give, should.”

To find out more about becoming a blood donor, or to book an appointment, call 0300 123 23 23 or visit.