‘Selflessness’ of Cork blood donors celebrated at awards ceremony

Blood and platelet donors from all walks of like were honoured at the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) awards ceremony at the Rochestown Park Hotel recently.

Recipients were recognised for the milestone of donating either 50 or 100 units of blood, a commitment which can take decades to achieve.

The chairperson of the IBTS, Deirdre Anne Barr, presented the awards, while the deputy lord mayor of Cork Margaret McDonnell attended to congratulate the donors who had travelled from across Munster.

The guest speaker was Sean O’Leary, of Kilcummin, Co Kerry. 

Impact

He spoke about the impact of blood donation, having received eight units of blood following a serious road traffic accident in July, 2021.

It left him with severe injuries and confined to a wheelchair. After multiple operations and a long recovery, he has worked hard to rebuild his life.

Now, Mr O’Leary said he is back playing football, grateful to the donors who made his recovery possible, and determined to inspire others by sharing his story.

He reminded the audience that the ceremony is not only about presenting awards, but it is about recognising the extraordinary generosity, kindness, and selflessness shown by blood and platelet donors.

Essential

Donor services manager Julianne Kelly emphasised the essential role of donors.

“Regular donors are the backbone of the IBTS. Without you, we simply could not provide hospitals across the country with the blood that patients so urgently need.

“Your generosity and selflessness have helpedthousands of people throughout Ireland, and together you have saved countless lives.”

Blood donation clinics are held in communities across Ireland, as well as at permanent clinics in Cork city and Dublin. Each week, the IBTS requires 3,000 units of blood to maintain a safe supply for patients in Irish hospitals.

• For more information, please visit giveblood.ie.