Nurse Carol makes the switch

For Senior Charge Nurse Carol Sinclair, blood donation is both a personal mission and a professional passion.

Aberdeen based Carol joined the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service in December 2017, after years working in Elective Orthopaedics and Surgical High Dependency, where she often saw blood products used in life-saving procedures. She admits she wasn't sure about applying for the role at first, but quickly realised the opportunity would be a great step for her development. 'I got the shock of my life when I got the phone call offering me the job,' she laughed.

Her connection with blood donation, however, goes back much further. In 2003, while walking past the Music Hall in Aberdeen with her husband, the couple spotted a poster advertising a blood donation session. Carol said, 'He asked, 'Do you fancy it?' and I said yes.

'We both had a great experience on that first donation. From then on, my goal was to reach 50 donations before I turned 50 and I made it with over three years to spare.'

The couple have donated side by side ever since, even sharing a celebratory packet of Tuc crackers after that first session. 'He's on 45 donations now,' she said proudly. 'I do have a bit of an advantage over him though as I can give blood after a shift!'

From every whole blood donation, three different components, blood, plasma and platelets are used. This means that one single donation can save or improve the lives of three different people. Carol's generosity has already supported around 150 patients across Scotland, but she plays down the achievement. 

'I'm just glad I can help other folk. It's not something I think of as out of the ordinary. Everybody should try it at least once.'

When asked what advice she would give to anyone considering donation, her message is simple. 'Just do it. You have it in you to save a life. The staff will guide you through each part of the process so there is nothing to be scared of.'

Plasma collection in Scotland is still in its infancy, but we're so keen to see new donors come forward Carol Sinclair, Senior Charge Nurse

Looking ahead, Carol is now moving from being a whole blood donor to becoming a plasma donor where she can continue helping patients in new ways. She says, 'Plasma collection in Scotland is still in its infancy, but we're so keen to see new donors come forward. I'd encourage anyone to at least enquire to see if they might be suitable.' 

Reflecting on her career and donations, Carol says she feels privileged to work in an environment that supports both donors and patients. 

'From a work point of view, it's amazing to hear the patient stories. We're very lucky to be able to play a part in saving lives.'

• If you've been inspired by Carol, contact us online or give us a call on 0345 90 90 999 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) to book an appointment. 

• Find out all about the important difference you could make as a plasma donor.