Team 98: Kyle
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.
Kyle’s life moves between the calm of the Scottish Highlands and the vibrant waters of the Caribbean. When he is not working, he lives in Lochaline on the Morvern Peninsula, but for ten months of the year he is a captain aboard a sailing catamaran in the Virgin Islands, working alongside his partner who is the onboard chef.
Being slightly uncomfortable is not a reason to not give blood – it could be the difference between life and death for someone out there
– Kyle
Kyle first gave blood while working on the Isle of Skye, after spotting a local appeal. ‘I saw posters around town for a blood donation and booked my appointment,’ he says. Inspired by his partner’s long history of donating, he decided it was time to do his part. Since then, he has made giving blood a priority, even with a lifestyle that takes him across the globe.
‘Because of the nature of my job, I donate when and where I can,’ he says. ‘I’m even registered for blood donation in the Virgin Islands, but it works a little differently there – you’re only called upon when there’s a need.’
Despite admitting he is not a massive fan of needles, Kyle is clear about why he keeps coming back. ‘Being slightly uncomfortable is not a reason to not give blood – it could be the difference between life and death for someone out there.’
Whenever he returns to Scotland, he seeks out opportunities to donate. ‘I get two months off a year so I look if there’s any donations anywhere in Scotland and sign up,’ he says. ‘Honestly, I think it’s one of the most selfless things you can do nowadays. What are the reasons to not give blood? I can’t think of any.’
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).