Saving lives is in the blood for Hexham widower

By August that year, the devastating cancer of the blood and bones had claimed her life.

The loss was a huge blow for Huw, who had been married to Annie for 28 years, and his family. "I miss Annie greatly, and I am not the only one," said the widower. "She told me, when she was ill, that she wanted us to get on with our lives. But it is hard sometimes."

Now, Huw is determined to help others who are battling against the disease. Although blood donations and transfusions sadly couldn't save Annie, Huw says he has seen how important they are for cancer treatment.

And the graphic designer from Hexham is appealing to North East people to sign up to the blood donor register.

"I have seen at first-hand what giving blood can do," he said. "Dr Graham Jackson and his team at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary were an inspiration in all they did to look after Annie, and by us donating blood we can help them continue their wonderful work .

"I donated blood many years ago when I was a student, but over the years I had got out of the habit, like many people.

"Now, in my wife's memory, it is the very least I can do."

Huw donates blood every three months, and once a month he also donates platelets. These small cells found in the blood are vital for healthy clotting. Chemotherapy ravages patients' platelet count, meaning many cancer sufferers need platelet transfusions regularly.

"When Annie was having chemotherapy, she needed two or three transfusions a day," Huw explained.

"In my wife's case, sadly, the outcome of her illness was that she passed away. She had a severe form of the disease.

"But many people have treatment and recover. People do come through.

"It's for those people that blood and platelet donations are so important.

"I know my wife would want me to do this. Annie never liked needles. But if she was still here, she would be gritting her teeth to donate as well."

Huw added: "I would encourage everyone who can spare the time to sign up and give blood, because it really makes a difference.

"Do something amazing, give blood. It really could save someone's life."

Huw joined Mayor of Newcastle, Councillor Michael Cookson, to give blood this week at the National Blood Service centre on Holland Road, Newcastle.

Every year, the service collects, tests and issues 2.1 million blood donations - but they are always looking for donors.

"The need for blood is constant with more than 2,200 units needed in hospitals across the North East every week," a spokesperson said.

"Over the winter blood stocks tend to dip as people are unable to donate due to seasonal illnesses, so it's vital that we keep stocks healthy.

"We would encourage anyone who has ever considered giving blood to do it. There's no better time to help save lives."

Recently, Huw and Annie's son Gareth got married. Instead of wedding presents Gareth and his bride asked for donations to the Leukaemia Research Fund in memory of Annie.

To sign up to the blood donor register or find out more, visit www.blood.co.uk

Upcoming Hexham blood donor sessions »