NHS Blood Donation services are calling for donors to come forward in the Birmingham area as demand remains high for certain types.
O and B negative
After a busy summer, there is a particular need for more O negative and B negative blood donors in and around Birmingham. O negative is the blood type used to treat patients in emergencies, including accidents and childbirth, and is therefore in constant high demand.
Black heritage donors
September is Sickle Cell Awareness month and an opportunity for the service to reiterate the need for thousands more donors of black heritage to come forward.
Sickle Cell disorder is a genetic condition and numbers of sufferers are growing. It changes the shape of red blood cells, causing extreme pain, organ damage and sometimes life-threatening complications. Sufferers need regular blood transfusions to replace the sickle-shaped cells with healthy ones, helping them live longer, healthier lives.
DONATE!
Did you know that, by giving up one hour of your time to donate blood, you could save up to three lives?
There are thousands of appointments available at Birmingham Donor Centre this month.
To find out if you are able to donate and to book an appointment, please go online at www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23.