Generous Victorians intending to give the precious gift of life saving blood have been urged to keep their appointments this week during the high demand season and end of year festivities.
Acting Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos visited the Melbourne CBD Blood Donor Centre on Collins Street today to thank generous Victorians who have rolled up their sleeves to donate blood throughout the year and to remind donors to keep their bookings, if they are fit and healthy to do so.
The state-of-the-art Australian Red Cross Blood Service facility, which opened last year, is open every day this week closing only on New Year’s Day.
Often during this time, people cancel, postpone or fail to show up for appointments, impacting blood supplies available for patients in an emergency.
The need for blood doesn’t take a break this time of year. Donations are just as important during the holiday season and blood is likely to be ordered by hospitals the same week it is collected.
A last-minute cancellation or failure to attend leaves the Blood Service without enough time to replace the donor.
The Blood Service collects nearly 25,000 blood donations every single week in Australia.
Every blood donation can save up to three lives. It is estimated that one in three Australians will need blood in their lifetime, but only one in 30 people donate blood.
To give blood, call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos
“While most people are enjoying a break, the Australian Red Cross Blood Service is open for business. The demand for blood doesn’t stop this time of year – that’s why we’re urging donors to keep their appointments.”
“Blood donations are still very much needed and may help save the lives of cancer patients, unborn babies and road trauma victims.”
“We know blood donors have the power to save lives. Everyone knows someone who has needed blood – this could be a child, parent, friend or neighbour.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020