TWO blood donors from West Devon were honoured for their commitment to saving lives last month at a donor award ceremony in Bovey Tracey. Christine Mitchell from Bere Alston and Ann Smith from Tavistock were presented with awards by Harry Avis, 17, from Moretonhampstead ? a youngster who knows how important donors are to helping save lives. The ceremony is the National Blood Service?s (NBS) way of saying thank you to the life saving actions of blood donors. The donors who attended the event have donated at least 75 or 100 units of blood each ? Christine has donated 75 units and Ann has donated 100 units. Harry has so far received 17 blood transfusions during his treatment for acute lymph-plastic leukaemia. He is a keen musician and during his speech to the donors Harry performed his own personal rendition of ?All you need is Love? by The Beatles ? ?All you need is blood?. Harry said: ?Although donors are anonymous they are all just as important as the doctors and surgeons in saving people?s lives. I wouldn?t be here without donors and for that I am very thankful.? A crystal decanter was presented to donors who have given 100 donations of blood, and a crystal plate for those who have given 75. Fay Simcox, spokesperson for the NBS, said: ?Our celebrated donors have made a lifetime commitment to helping others and have made a difference to so many lives.? The NBS are always looking for new donors . For information or to make an appointment to donate call its helpline on 08457 711 711.
