Dedicated donor rewarded for helping to save lives (From Messenger Newspapers)

NHS Blood and Transplant honours Sale resident

9:00am Wednesday 10th October 2012 in News

A DEDICATED blood donor from Sale, who has given blood 100 times, has been recognised for rolling up his sleeves to help save lives.

David Barnes has been rewarded for his commitment to helping hospital patients.

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people so if a donor has given blood 100 times they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 300 patients.

David was honoured at a recent awards ceremony held by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), where he received a crystal decanter for an amazing 100 donations - a milestone reached by only one per cent of all blood donors.

The 68-year-old, of Broomville Avenue, has been a blood donor for more than 45 years.

The retired bank manager and car park attendant said: “A visit to the bank by the blood donor team prompted me to start giving blood.

“Enthusiasm, altruism and lunch afterwards has kept me giving over the years. Various family members have received blood.”

The ceremony took place at The Monastery, Gorton, and the awards were presented by grateful mum Kristy Connaghan and her 12-year-old daughter Kitty, from Oldham, who needed blood after a bicycle accident.

For details on blood donor sessions or to book an appointment call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.