A WESTBURY local marked a milestone moment during lockdown – the donation of his 100th pint of blood.
Christopher Stallard has been donating blood for 38 years, since the age of 18. His 100th pint was donated during a collection at the Westbury Labour Club in early June – and coincidentally, his pint of blood was also the 100th pint collected at the venue during the lockdown period.
Christopher said, “The nurses and everyone there gave me a round of applause – it was a bit embarrassing really, But I did feel a real sense of achievement – it was a nice feeling to think about all the lives that I have helped save. I’ve always wanted to reach the milestone of 100 pints.
“I first started giving blood when I was 18 – I went with my dad who was donating and I thought that it was a really good idea.
“Since I started I have only missed one donation – it used to be twice a year, but a few years ago that was changed to three times a year. I always work my holidays around the collection days so I don’t miss a donation!
“I will carry on donating blood for as long as I am fit and healthy. Also my brother donates blood – he’s on his 60th pint – but he won’t go without me, so I definitely have to keep going!”
About the importance of blood donation, Christopher said, “The more people who know about blood donation the better – it’s important to donate because it is life-saving. What’s good now is that I get updates about where exactly my blood has gone – it goes all round the country to different hospitals, including children’s hospitals – which is very encouraging, It’s good to know that it is helping to save lives.”
For more information about giving blood and to register, visit: www. blood.co.uk
