The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has kicked off its annual Christmas Blood Blitz to ensure a steady supply of blood during the festive season and provide much-needed support for patients in hospitals.
Between December 22 and January 2, the country requires an additional 830 blood donations per day to meet the demands of hospitals treating various patients, including cancer patients, trauma victims, newborns, and new mothers.
One crucial blood component, platelets, is particularly in high demand as it has a shelf life of just seven days.
Cath Stone, the Executive Director of Donor Experience at Lifeblood, emphasised the importance of community collaboration to prevent a decline in blood donations during the Christmas period.
“We’re urging people to make donating blood or plasma a priority this Christmas and New Year period. This is always a challenging time of year for blood supplies because the need for blood is ongoing, but many existing donors are traveling or people’s routines are generally disrupted, so blood donation isn’t front of mind,” she stated.
Stone noted that it had been a year of unprecedented demand across the country, with 80 percent of blood products being delivered to major city hospitals, where critical patients receive urgent care.
“We’ve seen demand increase by more than four per cent in our major cities, and to help us continue to meet that demand, and make it easier for people to donate this holiday season, we’ve extended donor centre opening hours across the country, with many centres open on Christmas and New Year’s Day,” she said.
Stone encouraged individuals to consider the profound impact of blood donation during the festive season.
“Trying to find the perfect gift within a budget will be stressful for many this festive season. Giving blood and plasma doesn’t cost anything, but for a patient it will be life-changing. For some, it might mean spending another Christmas with family and friends. For others, it will be the key to a fuller life.”
As an added gesture of appreciation, all donors throughout December will receive a special limited-edition “Australiana” Christmas-themed bandage, designed by Melbourne-based artist Madeleine Stamer.
Breakdown of TOTAL extra donors needed between December 22-January 2:
AUSTRALIA: 10,000
NSW: 2,900
VIC: 3,450
QLD: 1,300
WA: 1,000
SA: 750
TAS: 300
ACT: 300
NT: 20
To find out about donor centre opening hours and to contribute to this life-saving cause, individuals can call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au, or download the Donate Blood app.
More News
