AN MP who survived sepsis - despite being given just a ten per cent chance by doctors - is encouraging fellow politicians and constituents to register as potential lifesavers.

Mike Wood, MP for Dudley South, is raising awareness in Parliament of the work done by blood cancer charity DKMS.

Mr Wood was today (Wednesday) set to appeal to fellow MPs to register as blood stem cell donors at an event being held at the House of Commons.

He contracted septicaemia (sepsis), a type of blood poisoning in 2017, which quickly led to blood pressure collapse and kidney failure, leading to the doctors' devastating prognosis of just a one in ten chance of survival.

Fortunately, following three weeks of treatment at Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley, Mr Wood was given the all clear.

It was during this period that he learned about the work of DKMS and he is joining forces with them to host today's event at the House of Commons' Committee Room 13.

Mr Wood said: “During my recovery at the Russells Hall Hospital, I reflected on those less fortunate than me and desperately wanted to help raise awareness of blood cancers and blood disorders.

"I chose to work with DKMS because I was inspired by their mission to find a matching blood stem cell donor for everyone who needs one.

“I’m calling on politicians of all parties and their staff to attend the event and to all of my constituents who are not yet registered to swab to be a lifesaver.”

Only six out of 10 people with blood cancer in the UK find an unrelated matching blood stem cell donor.

Combined, blood cancers are the third most common cause of cancer death in the UK and every 20 minutes someone in the country is diagnosed with a blood cancer, such as leukaemia.

Only 1,999 people in Dudley - fewer than one per cent of the area's population - have registered with DKMS to give someone a second chance at life.

Lisa Nugent, Head of Donor Recruitment at DKMS said: “We are grateful to Mike for giving us a platform to raise awareness of the important work that we do in registering more potential blood stem cell donors.

“Anyone that’s aged between 17-55 and in general good health can register online at dkms.org.uk for their home swab kit. There could be a lifesaver in you.”

To register with DKMS, visit https://www.dkms.org.uk/en/register-now