Blood donor honoured for saving lives after 102 donations
A dedicated blood donor who has potentially saved more than 300 lives has been honoured for his loyalty and commitment to helping others.
Keith Handley, from Great Wyrley, has made 102 donations since May 1971.
He was among 44 other donors from across the region who were honoured for their lifesaving efforts with commemorative medals at a service put together by the NHS Blood and Transplant group.
All those at the ceremony had donated on at least 100 occasions.
Keith, aged 72, started donating blood after seeing an urgent press announcement more than four decades ago and hasn't looked back since.
He said: "Giving blood takes 45 minutes every 12 weeks and I get free tea and biscuits, it's not a lot to ask to save lives."
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 in local hospitals through donating blood.
Out of the three per cent of the population who give blood just one per cent reach 100 donations.
Balbinder Kaur who suffers from Thalassaemia was a guest speaker at the ceremony and thanked donors for the monthly blood transfusions she receives.
Thalassaemia is a group of inherited blood disorders where the haemoglobin in the blood is abnormal.
Her red blood cells are unable to carry enough oxygen, which leads to anaemia and this is treated by Balbinder's monthly transfusions.
Balbinder said: "People like me need blood donations to live.
"I wouldn't be here now if it wasn't for blood donors.
"Receiving blood feels like receiving liquid gold.
"It gives me energy to live my life and I can't thank everyone enough who donates blood to keep me alive."
Karen Healy, senior marketing coordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: "Keith and all our loyal donors are very special to us and such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks.
"Keith has potentially saved over three hundred lives and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions.
"These donors are an inspiration to us all."
In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over (50kg) and are aged between 17 and 66, or up to 70 if you have given blood before, you should be able to give blood.
If you are over 70, you need to have given blood in the last two years to continue donating.
To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk
