Service calls for more regular blood donors

The Bunbury Blood Donor Centre is calling on people to consider taking the first step towards becoming a regular donor during National Blood Donor Week.

The Australian Blood Service is thanking its 470,000 regular donors, while calling on new members to make their first donations as data shows that half of first-time donors do not return.

Capel’s Deep Rosha is closing in on his 250th blood donation.

He said he started donating when at university in India because the father of one of his teachers needed blood during emergency surgery. It had now become part of his routine.

“I would encourage everyone to donate blood,” he said.

“It is such a easy process, which could have a huge impact on the lives of community members who need blood and blood products.

“I think most of us fear needles, but it’s just a tiny prick and most of the time you don’t even feel it.”

Blood Service spokeswoman Gina Tracey said the Bunbury Donor Centre needed additional donors to join its ranks.

“Australia needs a new donor every five minutes,” she said.

“We need more people like Deep to make blood or plasma donations a life-saving habit.

“During National Blood Donor Week (June 9-15) we again would like to say thank you to all our donors for their generosity.”

“It takes just an hour of your time to donate blood and every donation can help save up to three lives.”

Call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au to make an appointment.