- Published:
- Tuesday 27 December 2016
While most people are enjoying a summer break, the Australian Red Cross Blood Service is open for business and the Andrews Labor Government is reminding blood donors not to cancel their appointments to give blood during the holiday season.
Earlier this year, the Australian Red Cross Blood Service opened its state-of-the-art, new Melbourne CBD Blood Donor Centre on Collins St – the largest blood donation centre in Australia.
The centre will remain open throughout summer from 8am – 3.30pm – closing only on New Year’s Day.
That means everyone can still roll up their sleeves and help save lives. Blood donors are being urged to keep their bookings, if they are fit and healthy to do so.
Often during the summer holidays, people cancel, postpone or fail to show up for appointments, impacting on the level of blood supplies that patients might need in an emergency.
There is a constant need for blood, all year round. Donations are just as important during the summer holiday season as it is likely to be ordered by hospitals the same week it is collected.
A last minute cancellation or failure to attend leaves the Red Cross Blood Service without enough time to replace the donor.
The Red Cross Blood Service collects nearly 25,000 blood donations every single week in Australia.
Every blood donation can save up to three lives. It is estimated that one in three Australians will need blood their lifetime. About one in 30 people in Australia donate blood.
To give blood, call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
"We know blood donors have the power to save lives. Everyone knows someone who has needed blood – this could be a son, mother, or a neighbour."
"I urge all blood donors to honour your appointments this summer – patients are relying on your amazing generosity."
"The demand for blood doesn’t stop over summer. Your donation is still very much needed and may help save the lives of cancer patients, unborn babies and road trauma victims."