I just want to sincerely thank all those kind-hearted blood donors who regularly donate their blood to save the lives of other people. If it weren't for you folk, some of us would be dead by now.

As I lay in my bed at the Tauranga Hospital last week, I wondered who had given the blood I had received. Was that person a millionaire, an athlete or a bus driver? But that doesn't matter. Your kindness in donating blood for people who need it is so appreciated – a very big thank you to you all.

Oh yes ... and then there's the wonderful medical staff at Tauranga Hospital. To all those dedicated doctors, nurses, surgeons and orderlies, thank you for the compassion you show to your patients. You are second to none! Sincere thanks to everyone.

C Bruce, Pyes Pa.