A Reflection on grandparents day

Conor came to blood donation late in life after finishing playing sport. He feels it is something people can get into at any stage in their life, even if they gave previously and stopped, or simply just got out of the habit. Conor likes to keep healthy and believes blood donation contributes to that physically and mentally, with the feel-good factor not to be underestimated, when you are helping someone.

Conor feels the ‘ordinariness’ of giving blood sometimes works against getting more donors. He feels donors should talk more about the difference their efforts make, and thinks other people would make the extra effort to attend a clinic, if they really knew how giving blood can save so many lives; for example, 67% of donated blood is used to help fight cancer, and these treatments could not happen if blood were not available

New donors, or returning donors (5 years since last donation) are required to call 1800 731 137 to make their first appointment to give blood.
Prior to calling us, we recommend you review the ‘New Donor Eligibility Quiz’ to check if there are any reasons you might not be able to donate.
If eligible to donate, new or returning donors can check if there are upcoming clinics in their area on our ‘Clinic Finder’, and can then call to make an appointment. Further details www.giveblood.ie