Dedicated donors awarded for their ‘life saving’ efforts

Eric Woodward, from Kenilworth, and Dave Howell, of Southam, were honoured at a recent awards ceremony held by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT).

Mr Woodward, 58, was presented with a crystal decanter for making 100 donations while Mr Howell, 56, received a crystal plate for giving blood 75 times.

Mr Howell, who has been giving blood for 35 years, said: “It’s a very good cause.

“I know how valuable it can be, my wife and mother were both helped by blood after childbirth.”

Mr Woodward, who first donated in 1973, added: “I was called back and by the time I got to my bronze award, for ten donations, it had become something I just did.”

Each donation has the potential to save the lives of up to three people so Mr Woodward and Mr Howell have potentially helped up to 525 people.

The ceremony took place at the Barcelo Hotel in Daventry and the awards were presented by Emma Howells, whose 11-year-old son, Tyler has received several blood transfusions to help treat haemophilia B.

Suzanne Walsh, lead donor relations manager for NHSBT for the West Midlands, said: “Having Emma attend the ceremony, meet donors and tell her story has really brought home just how important our donors are to us.

“Through their voluntary and altruistic actions, they have collectively turned Emma’s life around, and for that, both Emma and NHSBT as an organisation, are truly grateful.

“We are grateful to all our donors but the loyalty of some of them is just overwhelming.

“It is an honour to recognise our long-standing donors in this way, their selfless dedication really is amazing.

“Their commitment means hospital patients are able to receive the life-saving blood they need.” For details of donation sessions or to book an appointment call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk