Surf Coast residents turned out in numbers to give blood to support those in need last week.
Lifeblood’s mobile blood donor centre visited Torquay from February 10 to 14, collecting more than 150 blood donations in the four days.
Surf Coast Shire councillor Liz Pattison was among the donors and said it was wonderful to have the opportunity to donate so close to home.
“I have been donating for many years after initially being invited to give it a go by a school friend,” Cr Pattison said.
“I continue to donate because it’s fun, especially when you bring your friends. Donating is easy to do, and it feels good to give back to those in need.
“The experience is lovely, with friendly and knowledgeable staff. It really helps people in the community.”
Lifeblood, a division of the Australian Red Cross Society, needs 33,000 blood and plasma donors each week to meet patient needs around the country.
Each donation can be used to save up to three lives, most commonly for patients needing cancer treatment and emergency surgery for road trauma or bleeding during childbirth.
Lifeblood spokesperson Emily Granland said you never knew when you or someone you love might require blood.
“We rely on the ongoing kindness of the community to donate to meet the nation’s growing patient demand,” she said.
“Blood can be donated once every 12 weeks – that equals four donations a year and totals just four hours of time. It is a small sacrifice for a life-changing impact.”
The mobile blood centre will return to Torquay from May 26 to 30. Call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or visit Geelong’s Lifeblood centre at 237-243 Ryrie Street.
