Jannette's story

Janette from Stornoway thanks blood donors for helping when she needed treatment.

"I was 38 when I was diagnosed with MDS (Myelodysplastic syndrome), a blood disorder that causes a drop in your number of healthy blood cells. I had been feeling tired for a little while but when I collapsed in the shower I went to the doctor. The results of my blood test came back that my HGB was 4.9 and my platelets were 5 (normal levels are 12.0 to 15.5 HGB for women, and as near to 300 platelets as possible). I was flown out to Raigmore Hospital that afternoon by the wonderful HeliMed crew.

"Between August 2009 and May 2010 I travelled twice weekly to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness for blood and platelet transfusions prior to a bone marrow transplant. It worked out at nearly 500 units between both blood and platelets.

"In 2010 I received my bone marrow transplant and have been really well since. I am one of the lucky ones that didn't have any complications after my transplant. I am near enough back to my normal self. It’s been eight years since I was diagnosed with MDS and I finally got discharged in January this year.

"I am truly grateful for each and every donation that was made. I don't believe I'd have been here without them."

Thank you Janette for your kind words to our donors and for sharing you story.

• To find out where you can give your #FestiveDonation visit www.scotblood.co.uk