Eric Woodward, a Technician in the Physics Department at Warwick, has been recognised for his commitment to rolling up his sleeves to help save lives.

At a recent awards ceremony held by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), Eric, from Kenilworth, was presented with a crystal decanter for an amazing 100 donations. Only 1% of all blood donors reach this milestone, so it really is an outstanding achievement.

The 58-year-old, who has been donating since 1973, said:

Impulse prompted me to start giving blood, I was going past a session. I was called back and by the time I got to my bronze award, for 10 donations, it had become something I did.

Eric is pictured here on the right, along with Dave Howell from Southam who received a crystal plate for 75 donations.

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people, so if a donor has given blood 100 times they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 300 patients in local hospitals through donating blood.

The award was presented by Emma Howells, whose son, Tyler, now eleven, was diagnosed with severe haemophilia B when he was just two days old. Emma said:

My son would not be alive today if it were not for blood donors. It's something I feel very strongly about and I try to recruit and encourage all that I can to give blood.

Give blood

New donors are always welcome. Anyone aged over 17, weighing more than 50 kg (7 stone 12 lbs) and in general good health could potentially start saving lives by becoming a blood donor. For details of sessions in the local area or to book an appointment call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.