Gemma and Ada's story

Many of you know our amazing staff member Gemma, as an Apheresis Donor Carer at our Edinburgh Donor Centre. This Blood Donor Week, she wants to share a special message with you all.

Behind every donation is a story like ours Gemma

'Its a privilege to share this not just as someone who works with blood, plasma and platelet donors, but as a mum whose life was forever changed by them.

'My daughter Ada was born on 8th August 2023 at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, after a sudden concealed placental abruption, a complication where the placenta separates from the womb without obvious external bleeding. It meant that both of us were in danger, and everything changed in a matter of moments.

'Ada arrived early and very unwell, needing a blood transfusion almost immediately to stabilise her tiny body. At the same time, I too lost a significant amount of blood, and although I was prepared for a transfusion, I was incredibly fortunate that my bleeding stopped on its own.

'In the days that followed, she became critically ill, developing acute renal failure. She spent five weeks in the neonatal unit including ten days in intensive care. She needed further support, including platelet transfusions when her body couldn’t keep up on its own.

'It was one of the most terrifying times of our lives. But because someone chose to donate blood, Ada had a chance. Ada got to stay. We got our family. You may never meet the people you save, but you are the reason they're here.

'Behind every donation is a story like ours. To every single donor, thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you - from Ada, from me, and from every family like ours.'

• If Gemma's story has spurred you to take action this Summer, we are delighted. Make an appointment to give blood online, or call us on 0345 90 90 999 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
• Alternatively, if you can't give blood yourself, why not share this story with someone you think might be able to help?