Dedicated Melton blood donor recognised after reaching 100 donations

A dedicated Melton blood donor has received his award for 100 blood donations which means he could have potentially saved or improved the lives of up to 300 people.
Melton man Michael Newham (67) received his award for reaching his 100th blood donation milestone EMN-160714-195940001Melton man Michael Newham (67) received his award for reaching his 100th blood donation milestone EMN-160714-195940001
Melton man Michael Newham (67) received his award for reaching his 100th blood donation milestone EMN-160714-195940001

Michael Newham (67) was recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant for his loyalty and commitment at a recent ceremony at Stapleford Park.

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people. Out of the three per cent of the eligible population who give blood, just one per cent reaches 100 donations.

Speaking at the awards ceremony was Rik Basra (57), a police inspector from Lutterworth, who received many life-saving blood and platelet transfusions while undergoing treatment for leukaemia and waiting for a stem cell transplant. He also received further blood transfusions following his transplant to support his recovery. Mr Basra said: “Blood donors are lifesavers. Without the numerous blood and platelet transfusions, I simply wouldn’t have made it to transplant. I didn’t have one donor, I had countless.

“Please take the time out of your day to donate as you never know when you or your family might need it in the future.”

In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over seven stones 12lbs (50kg) and are aged between 17 and 66 (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

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