By Emily Parsons

Published at 11:34, Friday, 12 October 2012

A dedicated donor has been rewarded for her efforts – after giving blood 75 times.

Dorothy Martin, 56, from George Street, Whitehaven, was handed a crystal plate at her recent donor session, after she asked to celebrate her achievement with NHS Blood and Donor staff who helped her reach the goal.

She said: “I wanted the marvellous and dedicated staff who help me to donate to share in such an achievement.

“Their camaraderie and the relaxed atmosphere they create relaxes us all. I always look forward to donating and the welcoming of my ‘friends’ at the donation sessions.

“After all it is they who have helped me reach such a proud milestone.”

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people, so Dorothy has potentially helped saved the lives of up to 225 patients.

Barbara Blanche, lead donor relations manager, said: “The commitment that Dorothy has shown to donating blood throughout her life is remarkable and we hope this inspires others to follow.

“Blood has a limited shelf life. Because of this, it is vital that both existing and new blood donors come forward now, so we can ensure vital supplies of blood are available for the patients that need them.”

Donated blood is used not only in accident and emergency situations, but also for patients undergoing surgery and receiving treatment for cancer and blood diseases, such as leukaemia. Currently 7,000 units of blood are needed every day to help save the lives of patients across England and North Wales.

A new blood donation session is being introduced at the Rawnsley Centre, Main Street, Keswick, at the end of this month. The first session is Friday, October 26, between 3pm and 7pm.

To find out more about blood donation and to book an appointment, call 0300 123 23 23.

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk