ZF employee’s journey as a platelet donor

Date: Tuesday 23 July 2024

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Justin Thorpe, a dedicated Service Co-ordinator within ZF’s CV team in Nottingham, has been making a profound impact through his commitment to blood and platelet donation.

Justin had always wanted to donate blood but never found the right moment. In 2021, amid the Covid-19 pandemic, he decided it was time to take action. Encouraged by his colleagues at ZF who were already donors, he signed up and began his journey as a blood donor.

After regularly donating blood, Justin noticed advertisements about the critical need for platelet donors. Given that only those with A negative blood type can donate platelets, and knowing these donations can save the lives of children with leukaemia and cancer, he decided to step up. In 2022, Justin started donating platelets and plasma.

Justin’s drive to become a donor stems from a desire to give back. "Everyone expects these resources to be available if you or your family need them, so if you can help, why wouldn’t you?" he says.

Justin believes in the importance of more people becoming donors. "If you're considering being a donor, just know that an hour of your time can save multiple lives. Platelet donations are always in short supply, and you can donate more often than whole blood."

For those inspired by Justin's story, he encourages you to visit the NHS Blood Donation website to learn more and sign up. A single donation can help three adults or twelve children.

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