Life-saver donates blood for 100th time
Mark Finkletaub, 67, who has given an estimated 12-and-a-half gallons since he began donating in 1972, and considers it “a socially responsible thing to do”.
A remarkable member of Cranbrook United Synagogue has hit a century of blood donations – and has no plans to stop there.
Mark Finkletaub, 67, who has given an estimated 12-and-a-half gallons since he began donating in 1972, told Jewish News he considers it “a socially responsible thing to do”. He got started after his uncle encouraged him to do so.
“On average, I can give blood around four times a year,” the retired former BT worker said after giving his 100th donation at the YMCA in Walthamstow. “I’m particularly pleased to hit this significant milestone.”
Saying he hopes the feat “encourages others to do likewise”, Finkletaub recognised the process has evolved over the years. “Straight after the first time I did it, I cycled from Newbury Park down to Mile End and back with no ill effects! These days, the NHS Blood and Transplant organisation would be telling people to take it quite easy after giving blood.”
Finkletaub lives in Gants Hill and says he is “happily single”. His father was involved in the local synagogue for 20 years and his mother was the membership secretary for Ilford Ajex (Association of Jewish ex-Servicemen and Women) ladies’ section.
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