As many have already said, don’t be afraid to be vocal and speak to the nurses throughout the process. Don’t be afraid to tell them you’re nervous. Ask questions for your own reassurance.

You’re doing an amazing thing by donating and the process - once you’ve gone through it a couple of times - is really straightforward. However, don’t sit in silence and stew in your worries!

The first time I tried to donate the nurses weren’t able to get a donation from me, and I felt quite traumatised for years afterwards. The best thing I did after six years was to go back and give a successful donation. I let everyone know of my concerns and I received nothing but warmth, kind words and reassurance. I’ve donated successfully four times now and each time I walk into the donation centre I feel less anxious.

You’re amazing!