Surf Coast residents will have the opportunity to donate blood once more when the Lifeblood mobile blood donor centre returns to Torquay this month.
After a huge response to a visit in January this year – the first time Lifeblood had come to Torquay in over a decade – the mobile blood centre is now open for appointment bookings for its return from April 15 to 20.
Lifeblood spokesperson Stephanie Reynolds said it was wonderful to feel so welcomed by the community during the January visit.
“There is clearly a strong desire from the people of Torquay and surrounds to do something good to help patients in need,” Ms Reynolds said.
“Every donation was truly appreciated and helped to maintain the nation’s blood supply.
“I thank everyone who took the time to donate. We are so excited to be coming back on April 15 and hope to see you all again.”
The blood donations Lifeblood collects are used to help a wide range of recipients, including those undergoing cancer treatments, people undergoing emergency surgery, road trauma victims and women suffering from bleeding during childbirth.
Surf Coast residents directly contributed to saving 540 lives during January when 180 people turned up to give blood over a five-day period. 49 of those were first-time donors.
Ms Reynolds said Lifeblood recognised the Torquay community’s willingness to donate and wanted to make blood donation easier for the locals.
“Not only will we be back in April, but we will also be looking to plan regular visits in the future,” she said.
Visit lifeblood.com.au to learn more about donating blood. The Geelong Donor Centre (237-243 Ryrie St) is also open seven days a week. To book a donation, call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.
