NHS in Scotland - 70th anniversary celebrations
On the 5th July 1948, the NHS in Scotland was formed.
As part of the NHS in Scotland 70th anniversary celebrations, The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) caught up with some of our donors who have recently celebrated their 70th birthday and have also each given 70 donations – amazing.
We had a quick chat with each of them to find out what inspired them to become blood donors and how they would encourage others to give blood and save lives.
Thomas Notley from Falkirk
"I started giving blood when I was 18 years old because it just felt like the right thing to do. I used to visit the blood bus at Motorola East Kilbride, but have since moved to Falkirk session. My favourite thing about being a blood donor is helping out those in need, but I suppose you could also say that the biscuits are a bonus!"
John Glyde from Bo’ness
"I give blood in Bo’ness and have done so since I was 18 years old. It seemed like a good way to get 45 minutes out of work and also get some free tea and biscuits into the bargain. I enjoy giving blood and always look forward to when it is time to donate again. I always say to everyone how easy it is to save a life."
Graham Biggerstaff from Bishopbriggs
"When I was only 12, my father was injured in a fire and needed 18 pints of blood to save his life. I always said I would repay those who had helped my father, so gave my first donation as soon as I was old enough. I have always given in the Glasgow and Bishopbriggs area and really enjoy helping others. Actually giving your donation only takes minutes, as it’s the paperwork that takes up most of time."
Jeanette Pllu from Linlithgow
"My sister was a nurse and explained to me how important blood donation is. I was 19 when I gave blood for the first time and since then have given blood in both Linlithgow and Edinburgh Donor Centre. It’s nice to know that by being a blood donor, you are directly helping people who are ill. My advice is to stay calm and keep in mind the people you are helping."
Donald Mackenzie from Plockton
"I clearly remember the first time I gave blood. It was 1965 and I gave in London with the rest of my regiment as a young highlander. Since then I have regularly donated at Kyleakin, Isle of Skye. I find the whole process of giving blood relaxing, and look forward to when it is time to have those 30 minutes of peace. If you have never given blood before; don’t think about it too much, just do it!"
Gordon Mackenzie from Bishopbriggs
"I gave my first donation when I was a student in Aberdeen. I didn’t really think about it too much and went along with a group of friends. Since then I have continued to donate regularly at my local session in Bishopbriggs. Giving blood is painless and it is great to know that you are helping save the lives of others. I encourage everyone to give blood as soon as they are old enough."
Each donation of blood can be split into three separate parts, which in turn can save or improve the lives of three people. This means that this inspirational group of people have helped save and improve the lives of 1470 patients – thank you.
- Start your inspirational journey. Sign up to be a blood donor by filling in our online form or giving us a call on 0345 90 90 999.