Call for donors as supply dwindles

Australian Red Cross Bunbury Blood Bank has called for potential donors to step forward in a time of need for the service.

Bunbury community relations officer Dianne Pope said the Red Cross was in desperate need of donors, with 2.2 days’ supply of all blood types left.

‘‘We aim to have six days’ supply at all times, to ensure we have blood for patients who need it — we had almost 27,000 fewer appointments than needed,’’ Ms Pope said.

‘‘In effect, it’s as though we have missed an entire week of donations and yet, the number of patients who rely on that blood are just as constant as ever.

‘‘It has been a really difficult year for the blood supply and with colds and flu now stopping regular donors coming in, we really need more help to build stocks now.’’

Ms Pope said one-in-three people needed a blood donation in their lifetime but only one-in-30 Australians donated.

‘‘We need to bolster our blood stocks now and we can’t do that without community support,’’ she said.

‘‘Cancer patients, people undergoing surgery, pregnant women and unborn babies all require donated blood.

‘‘There is no substitute for blood and it is needed every day.’’

Newton Moore Senior High School student Amber Wickens gave blood on Monday for the second time in her life and urged others to follow her lead.

‘‘I personally know a lot of people that need donations and rely on people to donate blood to make their lives a whole lot easier,’’ Amber said.

‘‘So many good things come out of giving blood, it doesn’t cost you anything but an hour of your time and you help so many people through even just one blood donation.’’

To book an appointment to donate blood, contact Australian Red Cross Bunbury Blood Bank on 9722 4900.