John Collins: First Responder

O negative is in constant demand. Known as the universal blood type, it's what hospitals and emergency services use when a patient's type is unknown. There is always call for more.

Answering that call is John Collins.

With an incredible tally of 170 lifesaving donations, what makes John even more remarkable is that he works as an emergency care assistant with the South Western Ambulance Service, meaning he sees the power of his lifesaving blood type in action.

"O negative can mean the difference between life and death," says John. "Getting blood to a patient at the roadside is crucial to stabilising them enough to get them to hospital.

"Thankfully it's not something I see often, but every time I do, I'm reminded just how amazing blood donors are."

John started donating at 17, having accompanied both of his parents to their own donations as a child. "My dad was a regular donor," says John. "He worked for Avon Tyres in Melksham and the blood service would visit his workplace social club.

"My mum donated when she could find the time around looking after the family. Because I grew up watching my parents do it, I didn't have the first-time nerves that other people might. There was never any doubt I'd follow in their footsteps."

Now 64, John has made both blood and platelet donations and will travel within a 30-mile radius to give a pint of O negative. "I know how in-demand O negative is, so I try to donate every 12 weeks," he says. "There's almost always a session I can book on to."

"It's always a positive experience. It's relaxing and the staff are amazing. The snacks are a highlight, though I am disappointed they no longer offer my favourite Fruit Clubs! I now go for Mint Club.

"I love the texts that tell you which hospital your blood has gone to. I always share those on social media."

Alongside his job as a retail butcher, John volunteered as a community first responder before joining the South Western Ambulance Service.

Coincidentally, O negative donors are sometimes themselves called first responders – their blood is carried on board some emergency response vehicles and air ambulances.

Of course, John would know about that as well: he currently volunteers for Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance and promotes the charity's work in the community. To help raise funds, he has completed a wing walk and five tandem parachute jumps to date.

When he's not saving lives in any number of ways, John enjoys campervan trips with his chocolate labrador, Fudge.

What's more, John's successfully passed the lifesaving torch down to his two sons, Kieren and Haydn, who are also donors. He says to anyone considering donating: "There is no easier way to save a life.

"Please do it."