By Aaron Cordy
THE importance of Lifeblood is in the name; it gives life to hundreds of thousands of Australians every year. On Monday, September 15, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s Shepparton Donor Centre celebrated 10 years of collecting life-saving blood and plasma donations at its Vaughan Street location.
Since the centre’s opening in 2015, it has collected more than 37,000 blood donations and more than 50,000 plasma donations. Over 10 years, the Shepparton community has saved more than 250,000 lives.
Kialla resident, Michael Downie, has been donating since the centre opened and made his 304th donation on the day.
“I started donating when I was in the Army Reserves more than 30 years ago,” Michael said. “I do it to serve the community and it just feels good. My son has made 125 donations too.”
Lifeblood spokesperson, Shae Burns, said she wasn’t surprised by the locals’ support of the Shepparton donor centre.
“We want to thank the community for a decade of giving generously. Every donation counts in ensuring patients receive the life-saving products they need,” said Shae.
Following a seasonal slump in appointments coupled with high cancellations during the winter months, Lifeblood is currently urging people to donate blood and plasma to support its blood stocks.
“A blood donor is needed every 18 seconds in Australia to help patients undergoing cancer treatment, major surgery, trauma, pregnancy and childbirth, and a range of other conditions.
“If you’ve ever thought about donating, this is the perfect time to come forward and join our wonderful family of donors,” said Shae.
There are 250 donation appointments available in the next two weeks. To book a donation, please call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Lifeblood app.
