Highland news team steps up for blood donation
Having reported on other people’s blood donations for several months now, staff from Highland News and Media rolled up their sleeves for the cause themselves last week.
Four members from the Inverness office were booked in to give at the donor centre based at Raigmore Hospital - including regular and previous donors as well as an enthusiastic first timer.
Customer success specialist Shannon Marvell was the most seasoned of the group, with donations now in double figures and said: "The process from start to finish was a breeze, the team are the nicest people and they are always appreciative of the time you give to donate.
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“I make up two per cent of donors across Scotland: AB+ are the universal recipient, meaning my blood can help anyone no matter their type, but most importantly, I have a Ro sub-type, meaning my donation is helping people with Sickle Cell disease.
“No matter what blood type you are - there is always a nurse by your side, they'll discuss anything and make a point of getting to know you, even if it's asking about your day.”
She is also a fan of the sugary snack all donors get to enjoy afterwards and noted how the options included those for people with specific dietary requirements including vegan and gluten-free options.
““If you're nervous about donating, be open about it, they understand that the environment is not everyone's cup of tea,” she added.
“The nurses will walk you through everything multiple times if needed, and answer as many questions you may have."
Digital audience specialist Craig McLean was a donor returning for the first time in a long time, and happy to do so.
“This was the sixth time I have given blood, but the first time in nearly 10 years,” he said.
“Altogether the process was very straightforward - other than a small pinch on the way in I barely felt anything at all.
“And other than feeling a little more tired than usual that evening, everything was completely fine and I am going to make sure to start going on a more regular basis going forward.
“I think it's really important to help if you are physically able to do so, and with how straightforward the process is and knowing it can hopefully help to save lives, it’s something I would recommend everyone who is able to start doing.”
News editor Gregor White was a first time donor - but is certain it won’t be his last.
“After months of having the privilege of meeting and talking to so many people who give of their time to help those in need with no reward other than knowing they are doing a good thing - and hearing really moving stories from those on the other side of the equation whose lives have been transformed by donations - I really did have to put my money where my mouth was and roll my sleeve up too!” he said.
“Giving blood is something I’ve always wanted to do but have always been nervous about. Having gone through the whole process now I can honestly say to everyone, there really is nothing to worry about at all.
“There’s a very slight scratch when they take a drop of blood to test your iron levels - but even that is overstating the sensation.
“And when it came to actually giving blood I felt absolutely no discomfort - and certainly no pain.
“Overall I met five different members of staff during my donation - at signing in, when having an initial iron levels test - then another when that showed up slightly low at first - and two more in the donation room itself. From start to finish they could not have been nicer or more reassuring.
“Every part of the process was explained, there were regular check ins during the donation to make sure I was still feeling OK - and a nurse even fetched me my drink of juice at the end.
“I also wasn’t allowed to leave without taking a bar of chocolate and a big bag of crisps - really what wasn’t there to like?
“My one regret is that I didn’t do this years ago, and I can’t wait until I get the chance to donate again.
“I understand not everyone can donate and even for those who can I understand that it just might not be their thing, but I would definitely say everyone who is able to should try it at least once.”
Highland News and Media wants to bring 5000 people from the Highlands and Moray in to give blood. Join our campaign to give blood and save lives. Book an appointment to give blood at www.scotblood.co.uk, or call 0345 90 90 999 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).
