20/10/2026
What inspires someone to donate blood not just once, but 123 times? For Jimmy, it all began with a personal loss and a promise to help others.
Back in 1974, Jimmy was working at Monsanto Textiles in Coleraine. When the factory closed in 1986, during that time he had already experienced something that would leave a lasting mark on his life, the death of his aunt from leukaemia. Her passing inspired Jimmy to become a blood donor and keep donating to helping others wherever he could.
Now, having reached the incredible milestone of 123 donations, Jimmy is a wonderful example of how one person’s decision can make a real difference.
Jimmy believes donating blood is much easier than many people imagine.
“It’s no problem giving blood; it’s just a few minutes of your time,” he explains.
For anyone feeling nervous, Jimmy is keen to reassure them that it is not as painful as people might think. In fact, he describes the experience as relaxing, thanks to the nurses who put donors at ease and there’s always the added bonus of a little snack afterwards!
But the real reward goes far beyond a biscuit and a cup of tea. Every donation is an opportunity to help someone who may be facing illness, undergoing treatment or fighting to recover.
Could you be someone's lifesaver?
