Spring into summer by giving the gift of life

With the days becoming warmer and longer and gardens beginning to bloom, our thoughts turn to the outdoors and keeping fit and healthy for summer. The National Blood Service is asking people this month to think of others that are less fortunate, such as those that need life saving blood treatments in Sussex and give blood to help save lives.

As donated blood has a limited shelf life, at just 35 days for red blood cells and just five days for platelets, it is crucial that new donors come forward regularly to ensure the vital supplies of blood needed by hospitals are readily available.

Steve Kellow, Area Donor Services Manager said: “Donated blood is used in accident and emergency situations, by cancer sufferers and in surgery. It is also used by people suffering from blood disorders such as sickle cell anaemia, who need regular blood transfusions. If you’ve ever wanted to be a donor but not got around to it, now is the time to act.”

The process of giving blood takes around an hour - with the actual donation taking about fifteen minutes.

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

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