In all the lifesaving efforts of 34 blood donors from across London and surrounding areas, who have collectively saved more than 10,200 lives, were honoured with commemorative medals at the ceremony in Holborn, London.
All the donors which included the two from Surrey have donated at least 100 times. Linda Gray, 63, retired, from Godalming, started giving blood at the age of 18 and has been a loyal donor for 45 years.
“I went along to a session with my two work colleagues and I have never looked back since. I feel so proud to have made it to my 100th donation, it is a huge achievement. There is nothing more gratifying or worthwhile than giving blood” she said.
“But most importantly, it remembering that it is helping others who really need it.
“My sister in law, haemorrhaged during child birth, and needed a blood transfusion. Without this vital life source, she wouldn’t be here today, enjoying life with her grandchildren.”
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. Just one per cent of blood donors reach 100 donations.
The guest speaker at the ceremony was Beth Cobbold, 19, who had a 10cm tumour removed from her brain in May 2014. She underwent a gruelling 13-hour operation to remove the mass and during the operation suffered a massive haemorrhage. Beth received more than 30 units of blood in order to save her life.
She said: “I would like to thank them for what they do. And it is not an understatement to say that without all the generous blood donors just the mere fact of me being here would not be possible.
“I applaud you all for your selfless act and hope that today you really appreciate how much you do for people like me.”
Michelle Laserna, senior marketing co-ordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “These loyal donors are very special to us, which is why such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks.
“Between them, these donors have saved thousands of lives, and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions. We hope these donors will inspire others to become blood donors.”
In general, as long as donors are fit and healthy, weigh over seven stone 12 pounds (50kg) and are aged between 17 and 66 (up to 70 for those who have given blood before) should be able to give blood.