Luton donor centre manager gives 73rd O negative donation and urges donors in the region to book

7 October 2024

Emma sitting after her 73rd blood donation with her colleaguesLuton clinical donor centre manager Emma Martin recently gave her 73rd donation of O negative blood, leading by example and urging people across the region to register and book an appointment.

O negative is the type that can be given to anyone – known as the universal blood type. It is used in emergencies or when a patient’s blood type is unknown. Air ambulances and emergency response vehicles carry O negative supplies. Just 8 per cent of the population have type O Negative but it makes up for around 16 per cent of all blood needed by hospitals.

Emma said: “I have donated blood and platelets over the years but my O negative blood is the most precious! I know my donations will have given a better quality of life to so many people and as a result bought joy to their friends and families also.

"To be honest I’ve never really looked at the numbers, I just feel it’s so easy to donate that there are far more reasons to donate than not.”

Giving the most precious blood

Currently, there is a particular need for more people with O negative blood to come forward.

Emma said: “As an O negative donor and knowing that my blood can go to almost anyone, it makes me want to ensure I can give as much as possible.

“It’s so easy to register and make a donation - and within a month of donating your blood will have saved or improved lives. Once your donation is issued to a hospital you receive a text saying where it’s gone.”

There are over 230 appointments available to book at Luton donor centre over the next two weeks.

Emma's donation journey

Emma has been working for NHS Blood and Transplant for thirteen years, starting as a session nurse before she became Senior Sister for the Hertfordshire Team. Since November 2016, Emma has been the clinical manager of the permanent blood donor centre in Luton.

Emma’s donation journey stared as soon as she turned 18, attending alongside her parents. She said: “I wanted to follow in their footsteps. My Mum is O negative too, but both my parents can no longer donate for health reasons, so I will continue as long as I can.”

If you have a parent or sibling with O negative blood type, then there is also a higher chance that you too could have this precious, much needed blood type.

Visit us at Luton donor centre

Emma given her post-donation refreshments by Aysha (donor carer)Luton donor centre is located in the town centre between the town Library and the Galaxy Centre.

Emma explains: “The Galaxy Centre includes a bowling alley, cinema and restaurants. Many of our donors make a day out of their visit and do some shopping, catch a film, or go for a meal.”

“The donor centre is easily accessible, the team are welcoming and friendly and we try and make it a relaxed atmosphere. The donation process is straightforward and we have lots of appointments available on a range of days and times.

“I have a fantastic team at Luton who will ensure donors have a great experience. We have a diverse team who can support donors through their donation journey.”

“We also have a vast array of post donation refreshments including chocolate, crisps, popcorn and biscuits. Also for long standing donors…TUC biscuits are back!”

Register as a blood donor and book an appointment to donate via the GiveBloodNHS app or at our website.