The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood service has issued an urgent call for eligible Queenslanders, including residents of the electorate of Moggill, to become blood donors for the first time, and for existing donors to make and honour their donation appointments in order to prevent a potential shortage of blood supplies.
Following a donation made at the Brisbane Red Cross Lifeblood Centre, Dr Christian Rowan MP, the State Member for Moggill, said now was a critical time for all healthy and eligible residents to look at donating blood.
“Each week, the Red Cross requires 29,000 blood and plasma donations from across Australia in order to prevent a shortage of supply.
“Donating blood is just so important not only now, but throughout the year, to assist patients with many different acute and chronic health conditions.” Dr Rowan said.
Whilst issuing the call for more donations, the Australian Red Cross has also sought to assure Queenslanders that blood and plasma donations remains an essential service, with travel and venue restrictions not preventing people from giving blood, with the exception of donors over the aged of 70 who have been advised to stay at home.
Dr Rowan said that through the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood service, every single donation can help change someone’s life.
“It only takes an hour to give blood, and can ultimately result in changing someone’s life for the better. That’s why I would strongly encourage local residents to book their next, or even first, donation with the Red Cross Lifeblood as soon as possible.” Dr Rowan said.
Further information, including scheduling a donation appointment, can be found via the Red Cross Lifeblood website at www.donateblood.com.au or by calling 13 14 95
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