Kempsey Shire residents are being urged to add a blood donation to their festive to-do lists, with the Port Macquarie Donor Centre taking appointments for the gift of life this Christmas and New Year.
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There are 100 places still to be filled to secure stocks for leukaemia patients, new mums, trauma patients, and many other seriously ill patients over the festive season, and the Blood Service hopes locals will factor an appointment.
South West Rocks resident Des Goodworth recently made his 30th donation in preparation for the busy Christmas period.
Spokesperson Jemma Falkenmire said that while Christmas might be still more than eight weeks away, amid the present shopping and party planning, making a commitment to donate blood was one task that could be crossed off now.
“The lead up to Christmas is a busy time for many Australians, and now is the best time to think about giving the perfect gift, the gift of life,” she said.
“While the nation writes their Christmas lists and this year’s most wanted gifts are revealed, for us the must-have gift is something far more vital than the latest gadget or toy – it’s blood.
“Christmas shopping, the party season, and the general rush together with public holidays can often lead to a drop in blood stocks.
“Every donation helps to save as many as three lives, and Christmas is the perfect time to give back to the community.”
The Port Macquarie Donor Centre, located on Clarence Street, is looking for donors between Saturday December 23 and Tuesday January 2.
One in three Australians will need blood in their lifetime, yet only one in 30 donates.
To make an appointment call 13 14 95 or visit www.donateblood.com.au
