Twin teenagers and their father made it a family affair when they gave blood just after the turn of the year.
Tyler Martin (17), a sixth year pupil at Millburn Academy in Inverness, said: ‘Knowing that together we’ve kicked off the year by potentially saving or improving the lives of up to nine people between us feels absolutely brilliant!”
Each blood donation can be divided into three component parts, all with different uses, thereby getting the maximum benefit from every donation.
“Growing up, I never saw any barriers to giving blood,” Tyler continued.
“If you’re able help, donating can do so much good, and it really takes so little time and effort.”
And ge added: “Myself and my twin brother Kaiden have always had a great role model in the family when it comes to giving blood.
“We gave our first donation at Inverness Donor Centre on January 2, but dad was giving his 38th donation on the same day.
“Giving blood is just something we knew we’d always do when the time came.
“There was no reason not to donate, it’s a great thing to be able to do for someone who’s less fortunate than you and you never know when you might need the help yourself.”
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Speaking about his experience as a first-time donor at the dedicated donations centre based at Raigmore Hospital he said: “The whole process of donating was really positive from start to finish.
“The atmosphere was chilled, and the staff were so reassuring.
“I’d highly recommend to anyone whether they’re giving blood for the first time, or if they’ve already donated in the past, to bring a buddy or a family member along with them.
“It’s a great thing to be able to do together and the whole process is even more enjoyable when you can have a chat and crack a few jokes between yourselves during your visit.’
“Although it feels great knowing that we’ve helped others through giving our donations, the best bit is knowing that it’s given those people a better start to the new year.
“Giving blood is a selfless thing to do and I’m already looking forward to coming back to give my second donation when the time comes.”
The twins’ father, Lee, added: “I started giving blood while serving in the army, it’s just been habit ever since.
“It’s something we’ve always talked about at home and as soon as the boys were old enough they were chasing me to get a date in to donate together rather than the other way round.
“It was a great feeling to start 2025 seeing Tyler and Kaiden giving their first donations and I know they’ll be encouraging more of their friends to come along with them in the future too.
“I’m really proud of them and delighted that we were able to do something so special together to mark the new year.”
Highland News and Media wants to bring 5000 people across the Highlands and Moray in to give blood between now and Easter. Join our campaign to give blood and save lives. Book an appointment to give blood at www.scotblood.co.uk, or call 0345 90 90 999 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).