DONATE BLOOD – CLARE VALLEY
Clare, your blood could save lives this holiday season
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is urging the people of Clare to factor a blood or plasma donation into their festive season plans and stick to it.
An additional 44 donors are needed to give the gift of life in Clare between January 2 and January 7.
Lifeblood spokesperson Zoe Ross said while it is a busy time and people are often out of their usual routines, the demand for blood is constant and supplies need a boost.
“Someone, somewhere in Australia will need blood or plasma every 18 seconds and the holiday season is no exception,” Ms Ross said.
“Every blood donation can save up to three lives, so there’s no greater gift this Christmas for those who rely on blood and plasma. Their families will be forever grateful too.”
Cancer treatment, emergency surgery, road trauma, and bleeding during childbirth are some of the most common uses for donated blood and plasma in Australia.
One in three people will require blood or blood products in their lifetime. Some may need it once while others rely on it regularly to improve their quality of life.
Zoe encouraged Clare locals to roll up a sleeve and make the festive season their reason for donating.
“A blood donation appointment only takes an hour, and our friendly staff will take excellent care of you,” Ms Ross said.
“The appointment includes a health assessment, the donation itself (which lasts 5-10 minutes) and time for refreshments and recovery.
“A blood donation is a selfless gift that can not only save lives but improves the quality of lives, and can give people more precious time with their loved ones.”
People who donate through to January 5 will have their arms wrapped in a vibrant limited-edition bandage designed by artist and plasma recipient Kat Macleod.
The design was inspired by the kindness and vitality of Australia’s donors and features a pattern of shining hearts, beams of light and flowing linework.
To book an appointment visit lifeblood.com.au, download the Donate Blood app or call 13 14 95.
The Clare Mobile Blood Donor Centre is located at 180 Main North Road and is open: Thursday 2 January: 11am – 5.30pm, Friday 3 January: 9.30am – 4.15pm, Monday 6 January: 10.30am – 5.30pm and Tuesday 7 January: 9.30am – 4.15pm.