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Every year, 245 babies are born with sickle cell. Marsha Howe is no stranger to the effects of the condition, having been diagnosed with it at a young age.

People who are treated for sickle cell with regular blood transfusions need the support of 100 donors every year. Marsha Howe is no stranger to the effects of living with sickle cell, having been diagnosed with it at a young age.

A marathon donor, Kevin Petty made his first blood donation in 1980, going on to reach the 250 mark, having switched to platelets. In September 2022, Kevin went to donate but was told his red blood cell count was low.

O negative donors are often said to be ‘universal’, meaning that their blood can be given to anyone safely in an emergency. That’s why air ambulances carry it on board.

Jensen Shettler needs medicine made from donated plasma for a disorder that the NHS estimates affects 1 in a million men and boys.

Jensen Shettler needs medicine made from donated plasma for a disorder that the NHS estimates affects 1 in a million men and boys.

“I woke up one day and my vision was blurry,” says Neil. “It was like looking through a cloud and I couldn’t open my eyes. Initially, medics thought it was conjunctivitis, but the symptoms continued for months.”

Nine out of ten families agree to support organ donation when they know what their loved one wanted. Hollie Trezise was left in no doubt what her husband, Seb, wanted to happen.

Winter is coming! Coughs, colds and (whisper it) Christmas are on their way, but the need for blood, plasma and platelets never stops. So, find out out what you need to know to help you carry on donating through the dark depths of winter.

Why A negative, A positive and AB negative platelet donors are always needed.