By Jessica Anstice
Cardinia Shire residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves when the blood donation centre comes to Pakenham next month.
The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Mobile Blood Donor Centre will park in Pakenham library’s car park from 2 to 13 November, with plenty of options available for locals to book in and donate.
Lifeblood spokesperson Erin Lagoudakis said the need for blood never stops.
“Australia needs to collect around 31,000 donations every week to meet demand,” she said.
“That’s around one blood donation needed every 24 seconds.”
Every blood donation has the power to save up to three lives, including those who are undergoing treatment for cancer, women experiencing complications giving birth and surgical patients, among countless others.
“One in three Australians will need blood or blood products in their lifetime so we’re encouraging those who can, to donate.”
Lifeblood donor centres are safe to visit, with strict social distancing, cleaning and donor eligibility measures in place.
Ms Lagoudakis noted that only healthy people are eligible to give blood, with Lifeblood having introduced even more stringent wellness checks prior to donating, including temperature checking.
“We want to thank everyone who’s continued to step up and donate during this pandemic,” she added.
Bookings are essential so reserve your donation time by calling 13 14 95, visiting lifeblood.com.au or downloading the Donate Blood app.
