Dear LPG

I had occasion to visit the hospital recently as an outpatient and while I was there the subject of giving blood came up. 

I am sure that most people have seen the adverts and thought about doing it but then the thought disappears and it never happens.  I am quite squeamish and I got to the age of 53 before I got the courage up to offer some of mine.  I went with a friend and after a pin prick on the finger to test that everything was well with the supply that we each had to offer, and lots of checks to make sure, we found out that our blood passed the test. 

The donation only took about 10 minutes and after a rest period and a check to see if we were OK it was all over.  The trouble is that I never got round to doing it again.  My family life and work got in the way really I suppose.

But I have just discovered that it may not be too late for me to give a little more of my personal supply.   The recent discussion got me googling and after a few minutes online I learned that you don’t have to be that young to give blood.  While there are many medical conditions and things that you have done in your life that might stop you, being a pensioner is not at the top of the list.   People up to the age of 65 can now give blood even if they have never given blood before as long as theirs passes all the other tests, and If you have given blood in the past it is still very much appreciated until you are at least 70. 

So perhaps, in the light of just how much of the stuff is needed, and taking into account the fact that we young pensioners have a little more time on our hands than many other sections of the community, just after you actually retire is an optimum time to find out if this is something we can  offer.

WP. Telegraph Hill.

LPG found some information on the subject of giving blood, how long it actually takes, and the maximum age of the people who can donate.  You can also contact the NHS blood and transplant department on 0300 123 23 23 to learn more.

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