The organisation is warning that a 'perfect storm' could be created by next year's bumper sporting calendar and extra bank holidays, severely affecting blood donation levels across our region in 2012. NHSBT statistics show that 93% of donors give blood during the working week and that big sporting events, or a string of bank holidays, cause national donation levels to drop.
Darren Bowen, NHSBT Donor Relations Manager for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: 'Approximately 2 million units of blood will be needed by hospitals throughout 2012, and the equivalent of 500 extra donations will be needed each week in the first six months to help us build blood stocks and cover extra potential need from Olympic visitors.
'We're calling on the public to make regular blood donation a New Year's resolution. Whether you've never donated before or haven't done for a while please book your appointment and help save lives in 2012.'
The transfusion service are also keen to get across the message that blood products are not only used to treat road traffic accident victims, but are also life savers and health improvers for those undergoing surgery, for new mums and babies, and for patients struggling with rheumatoid arthritis, sickle cell disease, and cancer.
And it's a message not lost on rugby star Steve, offering his full support to the campaign: 'I was diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer in 2006. The prognosis wasn't good and doctors thought I only had another six to twelve months left to live. But five years on, I'm still here and determined to make each day count.
'If you can give blood, why not make it your resolution for 2012. It takes half an hour of your time but will make a huge difference to the recipient.'
Other celebrities supporting the New Year resolution campaign include comedian Dave Spikey, Olympic runner Jo Pavey, singer Sophie Ellis Bextor, Dancing on Ice star Jayne Torvill and TV presenters Penny Smith and Ben Fogle.
Blood donors are welcomed from the age of 17.
Former Rugby Star Wants Yorkshire Blood
