World Blood Donor day: The difference one donation can make

Written by: Jay Dhaliwal, Chartered Independent Financial Advisor and Prabjot Ragbotra, Sales and Events Manager 

Jay Dhaliwal first donated blood on 14 November 2014. She says this is an important date, as she had previously tried to give blood during her first year of university but was classed as underweight at the time.

Jay explained: “That experience sparked my strength training fitness journey, as I was determined to give back, because my ‘why’ is personal.”

Her motivation became even more meaningful following a family experience. When Jay’s little sister was born, her mum required five blood transfusions. Five strangers ultimately saved her life.

She said: “Without their kindness, my mum wouldn’t be here today, and I wouldn’t have grown up to be the person I am, so for that I will forever be grateful.”

Since then, Jay has made it her mission to donate blood regularly and encourage others to do the same.

Appointments for blood donations are quick and easy to book, with a local centre available at 65 New Street.

Jay added: “With a bit of forward planning, it’s no more disruptive than stepping out for a longer lunch break, and the impact is immeasurable. I think there’s a real opportunity for workplaces to play a greater role in encouraging blood donation.”

She also highlighted the emotional impact of the process, noting that the NHS now sends texts to donors informing them when their donation has been used, which she describes as “incredibly touching”.

Jay added: “So, if you’ve ever thought about donating, consider this your sign... One hour could change someone’s world.”

Another donor with a similar commitment is Prabjot Ragbotra, who has donated blood 13 times and continues to encourage others to do the same.

Prabjot was aware of the importance of blood donation from a young age through her uncle in India, who regularly organises blood donation camps in his community.

Her uncle has donated blood 66 times and has inspired many others to follow his example.

Working in the fast-paced hospitality industry, Prabjot says she has always been able to fit donations around her schedule.

She said: “Seeing somebody lead by example in such a selfless way has always inspired me and reinforced how powerful small acts of kindness can be.

People often assume donating blood is time consuming or difficult to fit around work, but honestly, it’s far easier than most people think.

Appointments are simple to book online, the sessions are well organised, and once you’ve donated for the first time, the process becomes very straightforward.”

She added: “One of the most rewarding parts of donating blood is receiving the notification afterwards showing where your blood has been issued and which hospital it has gone to.

There’s an immense sense of pride in knowing that something so small on your part could potentially help save someone’s life.

For me, giving blood is such a small act for something that can make such a huge difference, and I genuinely think everybody should give it a try at least once in their lives.”