Mackay residents are being urged to roll up their sleeves and help save lives, with Lifeblood and Mayor Greg Williamson highlighting the importance of blood and plasma donations.
Lifeblood spokeswoman Gwendolyne Camaret said the impact of a single donation could be profound.
“One donation can save up to three lives. Our recipients include cancer patients, people undergoing surgery, car accident victims and more,” she said.
Camaret said while Mackay’s donor centre had been kept busy, there was always a pressing need to encourage more donations, particularly plasma.
“Our centre has been very busy with donations, and plasma especially has been very popular for a long time,” she said.
“We need to build a platform for plasma in Australia, so we always recommend that people donate plasma to help keep up with the needs of hospitals.”
She said the process to become a donor was straightforward, and the rewards were immeasurable.
“A blood donation can save lives, so that is just amazing. People can register online as a blood donor and come visit us – it’s a very simple process.”
Mayor Greg Williamson put words into action this week, rolling up his sleeve at Mackay’s Red Cross Lifeblood centre as part of a national local government campaign to promote awareness.
“You never know when you might need a blood transfusion – car accidents are high on that list. As Australians, this is one of the things we can do to guarantee there are blood supplies for all the trauma that happens,” Mr Williamson said.
“Right now, this is part of a local government, Australia-wide campaign to focus attention on the importance of blood donations. Here in Mackay, we’ve got a fantastic opportunity to do that through the Red Cross, and everybody can do it.”
The Mayor acknowledged that many people feel too busy to fit in a donation but stressed that making the time could make a life-saving difference.
“We’re all busy, but you just don’t know when you might be in a circumstance where you need a blood transfusion. Unless we’ve got the stocks here, that’s not going to happen.
“If you have the time, if you’re well enough, if you can spend an hour of your day giving blood, then it’s a great thing to do.”
For those unsure or hesitant about the process, Mr Williamson offered reassurance.
“Some people are scared of needles, but it’s actually quite easy. They really look after you here. It’s relaxing – you can watch TV while you’re doing it. It’s painless when the needle goes in, and at the end you even get some nice food before heading back into your day.”
With every donation carrying the potential to save lives, both Lifeblood and the Mayor are calling on Mackay residents to step forward and be part of the lifesaving effort.
Mackay, roll up your sleeves - one blood or plasma donation could save up to three lives! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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