Donor Andrew Smith, of Edgewater, with session leader Nigel Self at the Lifeblood Donor Centre in Edgewater.
Camera IconDonor Andrew Smith, of Edgewater, with session leader Nigel Self at the Lifeblood Donor Centre in Edgewater. Credit: Supplied/David Baylis d497199

Blood donation the best Secret Santa gift

Tyler BrownJoondalup Times

MORE than 250 northern suburbs blood donors are needed between now and the New Year.

To celebrate this lifesaving gift at Christmas, donors will receive a card to give someone to let them know they gave blood on their behalf.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood spokeswoman Louise Rowe said more than 1300 donors were needed across WA from December 21 to January 3 to prevent a possible shortage of blood stocks vital to the treatment of cancer patients.

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“With many people taking time off this holiday season we need those who can step up… ensuring no one misses out on receiving this incredible gift,” she said.

“If Secret Santa is about giving anonymous gifts designed to make someone’s day, then blood donation really is Australia’s ultimate Secret Santa exchange.”

Blood will be needed by road accident patients, pregnant mums, cancer patients and premature babies every day over Christmas and New Year.

Ms Rowe said stocks of platelets, a blood component vital to the treatment of cancer patients, were particularly at risk during the holiday period.

“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.

A new donor is needed every five minutes to meet Australia’s growing blood needs.

The Edgewater Donor Centre will be open from 7am to 3.30pm on December 22, 24, 26, 29 and 31, from 7am to 5.30pm on December 23 and 30, and from 7am to 6.30pm on January 2.

Call 13 14 95 or visit lifeblood.com.au.

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