Roll up your sleeve

WITH flu season almost over, now is an ideal time to do some good and head to your local donation centre to donate blood. There is a big demand for blood after another tough winter, so donation centres are encouraging people to roll up their sleeve and donate.

People of all walks of life need blood products. Some need it to get them through a serious event in their lives, like cancer or a difficult pregnancy. Others have medical conditions, which means they need blood products regularly to stay alive or be healthy.

You may be able to donate whole blood, plasma or platelets. Each type of blood donation is used for different medical treatments, and your blood type determines the best donation for you to make.

Being scared of needles, or a bit grossed out by blood, doesn’t need to stop you from donating. Lots of donors were scared or nervous the first time they donated blood, too.

You could try bringing a friend to distract you or using the televisions provided as a distraction, play a game on your phone, read a book, and even reward yourself after you donate. Whether it’s a guilt-free muffin or a special treat you’ve been looking forward to, it helps to concentrate on the reward.

Head into Shepparton’s Donor Centre opposite Kmart on Vaughan Street, or call 13 14 95 to book an appointment.