TWO lifesaving blood donations sessions will be held in Ceredigion in the new year as communities across Wales are urged to give ‘the best gift’ this Christmas by donating blood.

The Welsh Blood Service is preparing to face Winter pressures on its services and is hoping their new Christmas campaign, ‘the best gift’, will raise awareness about the importance of donating blood and the lifesaving difference it makes.

Last December, more than 900 donations of blood and blood products were needed across Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire to provide care to patients at Prince Philip, Withybush, Bronglais and Glangwili hospitals.

“These donations play a vital role by supporting a range of treatments from helping recovering accident victims and patients with blood cancers to supporting mothers and new-born babies during childbirth,” the Welsh Blood Service said.

Blood donations were needed during both pregnancies for mother of two, Shelley Parry.

After her own life was saved during her first pregnancy, Shelley received several more blood transfusions directly into her womb to keep her youngest daughter alive.

Shelley said: “Receiving blood is truly the best gift we have ever received.

“We’re forever indebted as a family to those who have taken the time to donate. “Without the generosity of blood donors, quite simply, we wouldn’t be parents. “Thanks to their selfless act, we can look forward to Christmas together as a family.

“It only takes one hour of your time to donate, if you can, please consider donating.”

Alan Prosser, Director of the Welsh Blood Service, said: “For some patients, receiving blood will be the best gift they receive this Christmas.

“It truly is the best gift you can give. Blood products have a short shelf life and is needed by hospitals 365 days a year, including Christmas day, to help support patients in need, which is why we can’t stop collecting. It is critical the service prepares. We need to build up blood stocks ahead of a potentially challenging winter, where seasonal illnesses and Covid-19 may exacerbate the usual winter pressures faced by the NHS.”

Appointments are available in Ceredigion in Aberaeron on 14 January and Lampeter on 18 January.