Give blood and help save lives in West Wales

Carmarthenshire residents are being called upon to help patients in need by giving blood with the Welsh Blood Service.

Despite the pandemic, donations are still needed daily by hospitals to treat patients with a range of conditions, including mothers and babies during childbirth; cancer patients receiving chemotherapy as part of their treatment; and by patients involved in emergencies.

One donation has multiple uses as it can be split into three products red cells, platelets and fresh-frozen plasma, meaning one donation can save or improve up to three adults or six babies lives.

Appointments are available at:   Parc Y Scarlets , Llanelli | 2,11,19 November 13,23,24                                                     December

                                               Ivy Bush Hotel, Carmarthen | 8,22 November 6,29 December

                                               Memorial Hall, Pontyberem | 15 November

                                               Community Hall , Kidwelly | 26 November

                                               Memorial Hall , Burry Port | 10 December

Alan Prosser, Director of the Welsh Blood Service, said:

“Every day around 350 donations are needed to help the 20 hospitals in Wales we supply.

“We’ve always had a great support from our donors but we’re hopeful that more people will consider becoming blood donors themselves.

“As a Service, we rely on the generosity of people living in Wales to provide vital donations to patients.

“By giving up just one hour of your time, you have a unique opportunity to make a difference to people in your community and beyond.

Additional safety measures have also been introduced at the donation sessions, social distancing guidelines are followed, all staff wear PPE and every item is cleaned between use.

Alan continued: “If you’ve never donated before, why not try something incredible this week – book to donate at one of the sessions in your local area and become a lifesaver.”

If you are aged between 17 and 66, book a lifesaving donation at: www.wbs.wales/LLanelliStandard

Hope to speak to you soon .