A BLOOD DONOR from Solihull who has potentially saved more than 300 lives has been recognised by the NHS for his loyalty and commitment.
Graham Taylor, from Lode Heath, has made 105 donations and was among 44 other blood donors from across the midlands that were honoured for their lifesaving efforts with commemorative medals at a ceremony in New Hall Hotel, Sutton Coldfield.
All those at the ceremony had donated on at least 100 occasions.
Out of the three per cent of the population who give blood, just one per cent reach 100 donations.
Now aged 69, Graham has been donating blood for 51 years after being taken along by hos brother-in-law as soon as he was old enough.
Graham said: “Giving blood is simple, it doesn’t hurt and does not take very long.
“Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people so if a donor gives blood 100 times then they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 300 patients in local hospitals.”
Balbinder Kaur, who suffers from Thalassaemia was a guest speaker at the ceremony and thanked donors for the monthly blood transfusions she receives.
Thalassaemia means Balbinder’s red blood cells are unable to carry enough oxygen – which leads to anaemia that is treated by monthly transfusions.
Balbinder said: “People like me need blood donations to live.
“I wouldn’t be here now if it wasn’t for blood donors – receiving blood feels like receiving liquid gold.
“It gives me energy to live my life and I can’t thank everyone enough who donates blood to keep me alive.”
Karen Healy, Senior Marketing Coordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “Graham and all our loyal donors are very special to us and such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks.
“Graham has potentially saved over 300 lives and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions. “These donors are an inspiration to us all.”
Providing you weigh over seven stone 12 lbs and are between 17 and 66, you should be able to give blood.
To book an appointment, call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk
