By Hugh Pearson
Pakenham local Barrie Young made his 200th blood donation on Tuesday 18 October at the Pakenham Library Community Hall.
Mr Young has donated blood four times a year for the past 55 years.
Mr Young and other family members first gave blood after his second cousin was diagnosed with leukaemia.
“She had some blood transfusions and being young, fit and stupid I thought I’ll repay what they gave her and I just haven’t gotten around to quitting,” Mr Young said.
One blood donation can save up to three people who require blood transfusions.
Mr Young said he gets great satisfaction knowing his blood will be used to help people in need.
“Helping people is something I was taught to do in my early years and I love doing it,” Mr Young said.
For those who want to give blood but are nervous to do so, you only need to consider the positive impact you’ll have on others’ lives.
Mr Young urged people to consider giving blood and said if he can do it, you can do it too.
“Blood is something that’s desperately needed and you can also point out that your partner or kid may one day need a blood transfusion and if it wasn’t there, how would you feel?
“I’m the greatest chicken under the sun. I can’t handle pain but what pain is involved?
“It’s no worse than a Covid injection or a flu injection and it’s 30 or 40 minutes of your day four times a year. It’s bloody brilliant.”
