Team 98: Chris
Seven blood donors – all born on 10 June 1998, the day Scotland kicked off their last World Cup campaign – are lending their voices to a national appeal for more young people to come forward and support patients across the country. Dionne, Chris, Prasanna, Sammi, Rory, Kyle and Blair, our ‘Team 98’ represent a new generation of donors helping safeguard Scotland’s blood supplies at a critical time.
Chris lives in Leith with his girlfriend Mollie and, as he puts it, ‘Her – I mean ‘our’ – collection of houseplants.’ He works as a Software Engineer and gives blood at Edinburgh Donor Centre
The more you do it, the less it feels like something you have to schedule around.
– Chris
His reason for starting is refreshingly honest. ‘My girlfriend and her friend have a tradition of going for a steak after donating and I was genuinely a bit jealous.’ That, plus ‘the promise of Tunnock’s Teacakes’, gave him the nudge he needed.
Chris is an O negative donor and understands the responsibility that comes with it. ‘Giving blood saves lives! I know that sounds a bit obvious, but it really is that simple. Being O negative means my blood can go to almost anyone, so I do feel a bit of an extra responsibility to do my bit when I can.’ Despite not loving needles, he sticks with it. ‘I’m not the greatest with needles so I do have to keep my mind elsewhere – mainly the steak dinner afterwards.’
What keeps him coming back is how normal it becomes. ‘The more you do it, the less it feels like something you have to schedule around. The staff are always really lovely and friendly, which makes the whole experience easy and relaxed.’ His advice to younger people is simple. ‘It’s a good experience. You feel great about yourself afterwards and you get full moral permission to treat yourself. Win-win.’
Chris follows football closely, supporting Newcastle United and both England and Scotland. ‘But who doesn’t love an underdog? C’mon Scotland!’
How to get involved
SNBTS is encouraging anyone aged 17 and over who is fit and well to register as a blood donor, check their eligibility and book an appointment.
- To support Scotland’s patients this summer, book an appointment online today.
- For more information, email nss.snbtsenquiry@nhs.scot or call 0345 90 90 999 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).