Like father, like son
With over 55% of Scotland's donor base now aged 45 or over, one Ayrshire family showed their support - by giving blood together.
Neil Doherty, a 54-year-old PE teacher at The Glasgow Academy, and his son Bryn, 21, a medical student at the University of Glasgow, made a special memory on Wednesday 4th June by donating plasma and platelets side by side for the very first time.
Though both are regular donors, this was their first time giving together. 'It's nice to have this small thing in common and know we’re giving something back,' says Neil. 'We don’t often get the chance to meet up with our busy diaries, so doing this together was special.’
Neil has been donating since his university days, but a friend's leukaemia diagnosis in the '90s prompted him to get more involved - including signing up to the Anthony Nolan register. He’s been a consistent donor ever since, now regularly giving plasma, which helps patients with cancer, immune disorders and critical illnesses.
It's one of the simplest, kindest things you could do Neil
'It's a small gesture that can make a huge difference,' says Neil. 'I like the idea that something so easy for me could mean everything to someone else.'
His son Bryn echoes that sentiment. A platelet donor, Bryn first got interested in donation as a child tagging along to his dad’s appointments - mostly for the biscuits, he jokes, but the experience clearly stuck. 'As soon as I turned 17, I started donating blood. Then I asked about platelets - they tested my levels, and I’ve been doing that ever since.'
Now on placement at University Hospital Crosshouse, Bryn sees firsthand how vital these donations are. 'I've looked after patients who rely on blood products. Knowing I'm helping them, even in a small way, is incredibly fulfilling. It's such an easy thing to do, and you get a teacake at the end — what’s not to love?'
Both Neil and Bryn are passionate about encouraging others to give blood, platelets, or plasma - especially young people. Neil is supporting the new Give Blood 4 Good sessions at his school, and Bryn is urging fellow students to sign up as well. 'People can feel nervous about donating, but there's no need,' says Bryn. 'The staff are so friendly and put you at ease - and you barely feel a thing.'
Neil agrees: 'If you're lucky enough to live or work near a donor centre, just do it. Even one donation can help save lives. It's one of the simplest, kindest things you can do.'
This Father's Day, Neil is encouraging other parents to start the conversation with the young people in their lives. 'You never know what will plant the seed. A small chat now might lead to a lifetime of giving.'