1000s New Black Blood Donors Required In Order To Meet Sickle Cell Demand

It’s always nice to come across new black blood donors who have made the important decision to help save lives. When we found out about Lulu from East London giving blood, we decided to get in contact with her. Lulu kindly agreed to have us write this article to let others know about the simple process of donating blood.

A civil servant in her mid 50s, Lulu gave blood once before, many years ago. However, due to medical operations she had to be deferred.

“Due to recent media coverage and reading about sickle cell and the fact that new black blood donors are needed spurred me on. I am now in my mid 50s and I’m raring to go again”. Lulu explained. “My blood group is B+, which is needed for sickle cell and thalassaemia patients. If donating blood and sharing information will help to support our community in any way, then I’m all for it”.

Lulu went further to tell us how she felt at ease at her local donation centre in Westfields, Stratford. “Although having a slight fear of needles, I listened to music and the nurses were so attentive and sweet. It took about 10 or 15 minutes and the donation was done. I received drinks and chocolate biscuits afterwards and rested a bit before returning home”.

A few more tips for giving blood

When asked if she would donate blood again, Lulu replied that she absolutely would. She also gave some advice for anyone else considering giving blood for the first time.

“My next appointment is in October this year and am very much looking forward to donate my blood again. I’d say for first time donors that you are truly selfless for making this worthwhile decision. You’ll receive a letter detailing your blood type, a card to carry and a key fob to keep. When you realise the importance of being a live saver, you get an overwhelming sense of achievement”.

Along with Lulu’s advice, we would also like to add the following simple tips for potential blood donors living in the UK.

• Register to give blood by visiting the National Health Service’s official blood donor’s website, www.blood.co.uk. You’ll need to answer a few basic questions which will take less than 2 minutes of your time.
• Try to eat healthy food and drink plenty of water 2 or 3 days before your blood donation appointment. Stay away from pork and red meat, especially if you carry the sickle cell trait.
• If you smoke and/or drink alcohol regularly, you can still give blood. Just refrain from drinking and/or smoking a day or two before your appointment.
• After your blood donation, stay away from alcohol and strenuous work for the rest of the day (8+ hours or so). You will be given a leaflet about this after every blood donation.
• It is perfectly safe to drive after giving blood and most donation centres offer free parking. Check with your venue’s website for bus routes and/or parking details.

Did you enjoy reading this article? If so, then please feel free to share it on your social media pages to help raise awareness.

Is there any other way I can help Black Blood Donors?

You can help support Black Blood Donors by giving our page a like on Facebook. This will help make more potential blood donors aware of our campaign efforts.

Have you registered to give blood yet? If not, you can do so by clicking here.