Time flies – save lives!
With time ticking away and Easter rapidly approaching National Blood Service (NBS) mascot Billy Blood Drop is taking to the skies on a special mission to recruit blood donors and save lives.
Blood supplies typically come under pressure over the long Easter weekend because many regular donors go away on holiday, and blood donation sessions are not held over the extended break. But the demand for blood remains constant, with hospitals in England and north Wales requiring around 7,000 units a day to ensure patients receive the lifesaving treatments they need.
With blood products like platelets having a shelf life of just five days, the NBS needs new and returning donors to be heroes and give blood in the run up to Easter. This will help ensure that there are enough blood stocks for the long bank holiday.
NBS spokesperson Rachel Hollingworth says: “Time really flies, and before you know it, Easter is here. Our message is that you don’t have to do anything epic to be a hero and save lives. By giving blood you can be a real-life Superman, all it takes is just an hour of your time and you can relax with a reward of tea and biscuits afterwards, mission accomplished!”
If you are aged between 17 and 60, are in general good health and weigh over 7st 12lbs (50kg) you could potentially start saving lives by becoming a blood donor. Ring the 24-hour National Donor Helpline on 0845 7 711 711 or visit www.blood.co.uk to register your details, find venues and times for your nearest blood donation session and book an appointment. Regular donors can give blood up to 70 years of age.
Blood Donar Session in Poynton
We have a blood donation session in Poynton soon and are keen to encourage local residents to come along and give blood. Blood stocks always fall around Easter as people jet off to sunnier climes or get stuck in to their first bit of New Year DIY so we are particularly keen to promote this session in order to continue to meet the demands of local hospitals.
Friday March 28
The Civic Hall, Park Lane, POYNTON
1.30 - 3.30 & 5.30 - 7.30pm
New or regular donors are encouraged to call 0845 7711 711 or to visit www.blood.co.uk to make an appointment to donate or for more information about blood donation.
