In the summer months, as many of us head off abroad in search of sun, sea and sangria, NHS Blood and Transplant would like to remind people in the Shildon area about the importance of taking time to donate blood before you go away.
Hospitals in England and North Wales need around 7,000 units of blood every day to treat patients with a range of health issues, so the need for blood is constant. So donate now, before you pack your suitcase and jet off to sunnier climes. This is especially important for those donors who are O Rh negative (O-) and B Rh negative (B-), as these blood groups are most vulnerable.
Donated blood is used not only in accident and emergency situations, but also for patients undergoing surgery and receiving treatment for cancer and blood diseases, such as leukaemia. Blood stocks can dip in the summer and with red blood cells only having a shelf life of 35 days and platelets a shelf life of seven days, it is important that NHS Blood and Transplant maintains vital blood stocks by collecting enough blood to meet patient needs.
Donna Batty, Lead Donor Relations Manager for NHSBT, said, “Summer is the time of year that everyone looks forward to. The longer days, warmer weather and the plethora of outdoor events puts everyone in a good mood. But with some people jetting off to exotic countries, we like to encourage eligible donors to donate before their holiday, rather than afterwards, to ensure that the blood stocks are kept healthy.”
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.
A session will be taking place at Shildon Methodist Church Hall on Wednesday 28th August, from 2.15pm – 3.45pm and again from 4.30pm to 7pm.
To book an appointment or more information, call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
