I've always felt that, unless your health doesn't allow you to, giving blood is such an easy way to support those around you and I can't see a reason why anyone in good health would choose not to do this. It only takes one hour out of your day, just three or four times a year, but it can save the lives of up to three people each time.

Since I turned 18 six years ago, as that's the minimum age to donate blood in Romania, where I'm from, I have given blood 11 times. On Wednesday, September 3, I returned to the Nottingham Donor Centre on North Church Street to complete my ninth donation with the NHS.

I keep returning because giving blood saves lives. Cancer patients, people who have been critically injured, newborn babies and mothers after childbirth - these are just some of the people 470ml of your blood could help improve the lives of.

I arrived at the donor centre very hydrated and having followed an iron-rich diet for the two or so weeks prior to my donation. This for me usually includes lots of eggs, chicken liver, beef, salmon, mackerel and broccoli, but also citruses which help your body absorb iron better thanks to their vitamin C.

Once at the centre, you are welcomed by a friendly receptionist and handed a form you'll need to fill in about your medical and travel history, as well as your lifestyle. This is to assess your eligibility to donate and it........

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