Why I volunteer...

“I watched a television program about the NABB, (Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes), on TV and looked up Northumbria Blood Bikes on the web, it was still early days having just launched but it was something I just had to get involved with.

Originally I joined the group as a fundraiser, having originally convinced myself I did not have the time to gain the advanced riding qualification. A short time spent with riders at fundraisers convinced me of the benefits and would allow me to assist even more. I have relied on the NHS all my life, so it gives me a great buzz to be able to give something back.

Currently I am a rider/ fundraiser and have given a few presentations. Having experienced first-hand the huge benefit that the Coordinators provide, I intend to also sign up for that.

I work full time with an out of hour’s commitment and some travel, so I have to forward plan shifts that fit. This is made easier with the online rota and there is a fantastic support network amongst the volunteers.

Since joining I have met some great people who I would probably never have met without the group. There have been a number of ‘memorable moments’.  I would say the most satisfying was delivering blood to the Freeman Hospital twice during the early hours. What made this special was on the second delivery I was thanked and told it was for a child undergoing Heart Transplant operation. It’s very rare we find out who we are helping. Despite being cold, wet and tired I felt incredibly proud to be a small part of it.  If you are thinking of joining...Go for it. You’ll meet some great people that all strive to make a difference.

My name is Jerry Trowbridge and that is why I volunteer for Northumbria Blood Bikes.”

To sign up or for more information on the roles visit: http://www.northumbriabloodbikes.org.uk/support/volunteer

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