The need for blood never stops

Bunbury residents have responded to a call-out for blood donations over the festive period with the Blood Donor Centre filling its appointment book.

The Australian Red Cross Blood Service has praised the response of the Bunbury community after a report in the South Western Times in December revealed a need for 40 spots to be filled.

Spokeswoman Jess Willet said the response over the Christmas and New Year period was fantastic with all spots filled.

“In total, close to 140 people gave blood in Bunbury in the three days we were open between December 28 and December 30,” Ms Willet said.

“The need for blood never takes a break and even over the festive season there are still patients in hospitals that need blood.

“It was critical we filled all our available appointments at this time of year to ensure we had enough blood supply for these patients.”

While the response was a major coup for the charity, Ms Willet said the need for blood never stopped and the focus was now on January appointments.

“Every week we need 270 donors to donate blood in Bunbury,” she said.

“Many of our regular donors are still taking a break, so we still need an extra 60 people to roll up their sleeves in Bunbury over the next two weeks.”

She said the need for plasma donations continued to rise each year, with the centre also calling on plasma donors.

“Plasma can be used to make 18 different blood products, including treatments for burns patients and people with immune deficiency disorders and even vaccinations,” she said.

To book an appointment contact the centre on 131 495.