Lily’s Donation Story
In this donor story, we’re shining a light on regular blood donor Lily Bevan. Lily’s motivations behind donating blood come from losing her dad from a rare type of cancer when she was only 8-years-old. We’d encourage everyone to read her inspiring story, take a page out of Lily’s book and do something amazing for others!
Why is blood donation important to you?
"Blood donation is important to me for the simple fact that I know I’m helping to save someone's life. The reason I wanted to start donating was because of my Dad. He was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer when I was 6 years old, and sadly died when I was only 8. As I grew up, I got involved with multiple cancer charities and would do anything I could to help others in a similar position.
When I was 16, I found out that my boss at my weekend job was a regular blood donor, which sparked my interest immediately as giving blood felt like a more direct way of helping cancer patients. As soon as I turned 17, I booked my first blood donation."
When you first gave blood, what were you most worried about?
"I was nervous but also excited for my first donation. I had no idea what to expect; however, it went really smoothly and I felt fine after. Fortunately, I’m not afraid of needles so that wasn’t too much of an issue for me. Whenever I felt nervous during the donation or leading up to it, I just thought of my Dad and it helped to get me through."
How many times have you donated blood?
"Last month (February 2022) was my 20th donation! I’m really excited to get to 25 donations, as at that milestone I’ll earn my silver award. The process of donating gets easier every time because you become accustomed to the process and what you need to do in the lead-up. In my case, I know that my iron is often low so the week before my donation I try to increase my intake of iron-rich foods. I’m also very grateful for how easy it is to book and change your donation whenever you need to, as it means I can be flexible around my schedule."
How do you feel after you donate blood?
"I luckily have always been fine after donating. I usually just feel super happy that I completed my donation safely and of course, I love the post-donation snack! The staff are always so friendly and helpful, so I feel very looked after from start to finish."
Is there any advice you would give to someone who is worried about donating blood?
"Firstly, if you are scared of needles, I will not lie to you and say it doesn’t hurt. Of course, it does, it’s a sharp item piercing your skin. But my main advice for anyone who’s nervous for whatever reason is: think of why you are doing this. Who are you doing this for? Sadly, nearly everyone will know someone who suffers from cancer, has a chronic illness that requires blood transfusions regularly, has been involved in a car accident, or a new mum that has needed a transfusion during labour.
There are countless reasons why someone might need your blood donation; we can save that person’s life by sitting in a chair for 15 minutes. Fifteen minutes to save a life. What a luxury to be able to do something so meaningful for someone else. It is a privilege.
I hope that somewhere along my journey of donating, that I might have helped to save a little 8-year-old girl’s Dad."