I became a blood donor after seeing an advert on TV that said "just one donation can help save the lives of up to three people". I realised that a small amount of my time could make a big difference to these people.
When I first went along to donate I was pretty nervous but it was not as bad as I thought it would be. The needle hurt a bit when it first went in but apart from that it was nothing major and I got a biscuit at the end of it all.
When my mother in law was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago, my husband decided (after some gentle persuasion form me) that he would become a donor as well. My argument to him was "What if your Mum needed blood during one of her operations?" This thought was enough to get him along, and as it turns out he has one of the rarer blood types so his donations are even more valuable.
Today (14th of June) is World Blood Donor Day. A day where the NZ Blood Service says "thank you" to all of the blood donors around New Zealand!
If you wish to become a blood donor just call 0800 GIVE BLOOD (0800 448 325) or book an appointment online.
Wouldn't you want blood available for one of your family members if they needed it?