Applecross resident Peter McGlade has donated blood an extraordinary amount of times.
Camera IconApplecross resident Peter McGlade has donated blood an extraordinary amount of times. Credit: Supplied/Jon Hewson

Applecross resident recognised for his efforts ahead of National Blood Donor Week

Aaron CorlettMelville Gazette

PETER McGlade started donating blood in 1982 because it was convenient but knowing that he is helping people has spurred him to continue for nearly four decades.

The Applecross resident will be recognised for making 475 donations during National Blood Donor Week, which takes place from September 2 to 8.

“I worked for an oil company in the city and there used to be a car that would take us down to donate when we could,” he said.

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“Back then you could donate whole blood every three months so whenever we had six people, they would take us down.

“Years later I was able to donate plasma and platelets every fortnight.”

Mr McGlade said Tuesday every fortnight was his day to donate blood.

“I head to the Red Cross and then the rest of the world follows,” he said.

“I’ve been asked before to change but for me, it works well.”

Mr McGlade said he felt “embarrassed” when he was recognised for making the milestone donations.

“They’ve told me before that I’ve helped to save 1400 lives but I’m just happy to help out,” he said.

“I think if you can help out then you should, I’ve helped talk some of the people from my work into heading down to the donor centre with me.

“From my experience, everyone from the receptionist to the nursing staff and the volunteers have all been brilliant, I’ve always had a good experience.”