Award for super blood donor

A dedicated blood donor who has given an amazing 101 pints over the years has been rewarded for her support.

Sheila Anderson, of Pierson Road, Windsor was honoured by the National Blood Service (NBS) and presented with a crystal decanter at a donor session at the Alma Road Youth and Community Centre.

Mrs Anderson began giving blood when she was 20-years-old. She said: "My mother was a blood donor and I simply wanted to follow in her footsteps". 
She found giving blood painless and very simple so she has been giving her pint of the red stuff regularly ever since.

Sheila, who is a bookkeeper for Navson Ltd and Martin Conways, said: "Giving blood saves lives and I feel very proud to know that I am helping patients each time I roll up my sleeve. 

"My advice to anyone wanting to become a blood donor would be to give it a go. It only takes about an hour and doesn't hurt a bit."

To be a blood donor you should be aged between 17 to 59 (you can give blood on your 60th birthday), weigh over 7st 12lbs (50kg) and be in good general health. Appointments should be made wherever possible. 

The next chance to give blood locally is on Wednesday, October 22 at the Youth and Community Centre, Alma Road.
Times are 12.45pm to 3.30 and 5pm to 7.30pm. Regular donors can give blood up to 70 years-old. Make an appointment to donate by ringing the 24-hour National Donor Helpline on 0845 7 711 711 or visit www.blood.co.uk.