[Freelance journalist and owner of Suburbia magazine, Edward Smith, pictured with Graham Norton]

In the Irish Independent, Edward Smith writes:

My particular blood type is rare and actively sought by the IBTS [Irish Blood Transfusion Service].

Known as the universal donor, it’s the only blood type that can be given to anyone in emergency situations. My father is a universal donor too and receives text messages from the IBTS regularly, requesting a donation, but I get turned away at the door.

I’m being robbed by the IBTS of the chance to potentially save someone’s life. I feel punished by this policy. I’m perfectly healthy, but I have a boyfriend and, consequently, I’m permanently excluded from donating.

At the blood donor clinic in Dublin, all appeared as one might imagine, until I mentioned I had a boyfriend. I was asked to join a nurse in a private room where I was told I was not eligible to donate.

‘Because I am gay, I am denied the chance to potentially save someone’s life’ (Edward Smith, Irish Independent)

Edward Smith

Thanks Emmet Martin