'Save a life' - Tipperary people urged to give the life saving gift of donating blood

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) have warned Tipperary blood donors that clinics taking place this week will be their last chance to give blood before the Easter bank holiday weekend.

Donors in the Premier County are being asked to safeguard blood supplies for Easter by supporting three blood donation clinics across the county this week.

Clinics will take place in Cappawhite, Newport and Roscrea, with new donors welcome at each clinic.

In Cappawhite, the blood donation clinic will take place today (Wednesday, April 16) at Cappawhite Community Centre from 4.50pm to 8.10pm.

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A blood donation clinic will take place in Newport tomorrow, Thursday (April 17) from 4.50pm to 8.10pm, while a clinic will also take place at Colaiste Pobail Roscrea on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week (April 22 and 23), from 3.50pm to 8.10pm.

The IBTS say that the demand for blood remains constant, and that 65% of all donated blood helps to support cancer patients.

Alex O'Connor, Donor Recruitment Executive with the IBTS said that local support for blood donation clinics is key.

"We’ve faced some real challenges this year. Severe weather and rising levels of respiratory illness have kept many people from donating. We need communities like Tipperary to help us protect the national blood supply.

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"Whether you're a regular donor, returning after some time, or thinking of giving blood for the first time—your donation can make a life-saving difference," he said.

The IBTS is also encouraging more people from younger age groups and diverse communities—including those of African heritage—to attend, helping to ensure that Ireland’s blood supply reflects the needs of our growing and diverse population.