The Irish Blood Transfusion Service has paid tribute to all 115 Donors who attended the recently held clinic in the Leisure Centre, Emyvale. About 70,000 patients are transfused with blood each year in Irish Hospitals and to do this the service must collect approximately 3,000 donations of blood each and every week from voluntary donors.
As a result, Paul McKenna from Monaghan is calling on locals from across the region to get involved in next week's donation clinic which is taking place next Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (February 7th, 8th, 9th) at the Hillgrove Hotel in Monaghan Town.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Paul revealed that his desire to give blood developed after his father was sick and needed a blood transfusion over 20 years ago. From then, Paul said it was important for him to "give back" adding that is "vital" for people to play their part and ensure that a high blood stock is constantly kept in our hospitals.
"I get text messages regularly throughout the year saying there is low blood stocks. Unfortunately, people don't see the importance of giving blood until it comes to their own front door. It's only a small amount that you donate, but that pint of blood is vital and could save someone's life," explained Paul.
In a statement to Northern Sound in relation to the upcoming clinics next week, Irish Blood Transfusion Service stated; "As a result of Covid19 we are now appointment only – service members can talk you through the process and do an initial screening and allocate an appointment slot to you.
"Please do take the eligibility quiz for New and Returning donors on our website prior to ringing – https://www.giveblood.ie/can-i-give-blood/blood-eligibility-quiz1/new%20and%20returning%20donors%20eligibility%20quiz/
"Please get in touch if you are interested in attending one of the clinics by phone to 1800 222 111 as we only have a certain number of slots per day for new or returning Donors. Please note – appointments cannot be made by email or text."
