Katie’s Donor Story
“If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.”
After six attempts, 21-year-old university student Katie was recently successful in giving a full blood donation at the Edinburgh Blood Donor Centre! Read on to hear more about Katie’s experience.
Could you tell us more about your experiences and journey of donating blood?
“I’ve tried donating blood six times, only being successful on the last attempt. Apart from the last donation, I’ve never managed to complete a full donation on time. I usually get to half-way before the session times out. Out of curiosity, I asked what happens to incomplete donations and was glad to hear they are used for teaching and research. So, although I haven’t been able to complete a donation, it was nice to know that what I managed to donate was still useful for other things!”
Where did you first hear about blood donation?
“Both my mum and dad have taken part in blood drives in the past, so I knew about them before uni. I first properly got involved during my first year with the first blood drive for Patrick. Swim organised one and I signed up and took part. Unfortunately, I only managed about half a donation before it timed out. I’ve been back for every blood drive with swim since and a couple of blood drives at home in between.”
When you first gave blood, what were you most worried about?
“The most worrying part for my first donation was that I didn’t know what to expect. The Give Blood for Good website, insta and the Blood Donation Scotland website all have loads of helpful FAQs and stories from others who have donated. After reading through these websites, I was deffo a lot less worried for my appointment. The staff are also all super lovely and answered any questions I had during the appointment.”
What are your experiences with the nurses at blood donor centres?
“Every donation I’ve attempted, the staff have been incredible. They are so friendly and accommodating for any worries or concerns I had. The first couple of times they were more than happy to sit with me for the time it took for the donation and just chat about anything and everything to take my mind off it. I was also super nosey about the whole process, and they were super patient and answered my million and one questions about it all!”
Why is it important to you to give blood?
“For me it is so important to donate because it can make such a difference to someone. 1 donation can help up to 3 people, so I think it’s definitely a worthwhile thing to do. It’s such a quick thing to do that has a big impact!”
Is there any advice you would give to someone who is worried about donating blood?
“I recommend talking to someone who has donated before. They can give you the low-down on what is going to happen step-by-step, so nothing comes as a surprise. I’d also suggest going with a group of friends. It is a lot more fun to donate as a group! The Tunnocks teacake at the end was also a great incentive!”