By Natalee Kerr
Sitting in the blood donation chair for the 355th time, Armstrong Creek’s Bruce Wilson understands the importance of rolling up his sleeves this festive season.
The 70-year-old made the milestone plasma donation last Monday and has already set his next appointment before the New Year.
Bruce has been donating at the Lifeblood Geelong Donor Centre for the last 20 years.
“It’s easy to do, it’s quick, painless and free,” he said.
“Apparently I can keep coming until I’m 81, so I’m aiming to keep going until then.”
The fortnightly plasma donor said it feels “amazing” to learn about the impact from every donation.
“I’ve had some feedback from some of my donations that go to three particular places, including to very young children,” he said.
“To hear that makes the trip in all the more worthwhile as you feel more committed to it.”
Lifeblood spokeswoman Stephanie Reynolds said the centre needed 470 donors between December 26 and January 2 to prevent a shortage of blood stocks.
“With many people taking time off this holiday season we need those who can to step up and be a life-changing ‘secret Santa’ to Australian patients in need,” Stephanie said.
Road accident patients, pregnant mums, cancer patients and premature babies are in need of blood during the holiday period, according to Lifeblood.
But stocks of platelets, a blood component vital to the treatment of cancer patients, were particularly at risk, Stephanie said.
“It takes four blood donations to make just one bag of platelets for patients and they only last for five days so donors are constantly needed,” she said.
To find out more about donating call 13 14 95, or visit lifeblood.com.au.
