Blood Donor Week

31 May 2010

To mark the launch of Blood Donor Week, Glasgow toddler Niamh, who has leukaemia, joined over a hundred people to form Scotland's first Human Blood Drop.

Blood Donor Week celebrates all types of blood donation including platelets, which are a component of blood essential to prevent bleeding and have a shelf life of only five days. Many patients such as those with cancer, leukaemia and premature babies depend on platelets for treatment.

Niamh, who took her place as the tip of the human blood drop, has been receiving treatment for leukaemia for the past 18 months and requires regular transfusions.

John, Niamh's father said: "Niamh has been so brave when facing gruelling treatment. We're here with her today to thank all the blood and platelet donors who have helped make her treatment possible. Niamh is still receiving treatment,and was in Yorkhill Hospital for her 17th lumber puncture only last week.

He added "Niamh's future now looks bright and as a family we are hopeful we're over the worst. Watching how important transfusions were to her recovery made me determined to help and I now give platelets at Glasgow Donor Centre each month. Niamh celebrated her third birthday last week and thanks to blood donors, our darling little girl was able to have the wonderful birthday she so deserves."

This year, Blood Donor Week falls not only at the start of the busy holiday season when traditionally blood donations dip, but also ahead of the World Cup when many people will be engrossed in the action. Scotland needs 5,000 donations every week to meet hospital demands and SNBTS is asking
those who have never donated before to come forward and reminding those that haven't given for a while to come back over summer.

Dr Moira Carter, National Donor Services Manager, SNBTS says: "Today launches a full week of intense activity to highlight the importance of giving blood at least once a year. This is an important
time for us and we ask that you join a life saving team by giving blood.

Remember that each donation you give can score a vital ‘hat trick' by helping save the life of three people. Help us show patients in Scotland that they are not fighting alone. To register as a blood donor or to find out where your nearest donation session is, call 0845 90 90 999, text ‘blood' to 61611 or visit www.scotblood.co.uk .