Appointments still available for Lifeblood’s Torquay visit

AUSTRALIAN Red Cross Lifeblood is calling on the Torquay community to continue to make a life-changing difference to patients in need by rolling up their sleeves to donate blood when the mobile donor centre visits later this month.

More than 80 appointments still need filling over the six days from October 21 to October 26.

It will be the fourth visit to Torquay this year, in what has been a positive return to the town after a 10 year break.

Lifeblood spokesperson Emily Granland said demand for blood and blood products was at its highest in a decade.

“We know the people of Torquay are incredibly generous, and we hope they grab the opportunity to make sure our donor chairs are full.

“If you’ve given blood before, be a local legend and spread the word with your friends, family, and neighbours about how they can help to make a difference.

“We love to see our regular donors come back and are always excited to welcome first-timers as well.”

A blood donation appointment takes around an hour, with the donation itself taking just five to 10 minutes.

Each donation can save up to three lives.

Every week, Lifeblood needs 33,000 blood and plasma donations around the nation to meet patients’ needs.

Cancer treatment, emergency surgery, road trauma and bleeding during childbirth are some of the most common uses for donated blood in Australia.

 

The opportunity to donate follows the recent launch of a new Lifeblood campaign called “Life is the reason”.

It highlights the many personal and life-saving reasons people choose to donate, from supporting a family member or helping a stranger to enjoying some quiet time and a milkshake.

The Torquay Mobile Donor Centre will be located outside Bunnings, 1 Beacon Blvd Torquay, on the following days and times:

• October 21, 12.30pm to 5.30pm
• October 22, 11.30am to 6.30pm
• October 23, 10.30 am to 5.30pm
• October 24, 10.30 am to 5.30pm
• October 25, 7.30am to 2.30pm, and
• October 26, 7.30 am to 1pm.

To book a donation, phone 13 14 95, or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.