SES boost blood supply: Emergency Services Blood Challenge

SES boost blood supply: Emergency Services Blood Challenge

Published: 30/05/2017

Members from five Emergency Services converged at the Victoria Police Air Wing hangar this morning to launch the 2017 Emergency Services Blood Challenge.

 

 

The Emergency Services Challenge is part of the Blood Service’s Red25 program, a unique movement in which groups and organisations around Australia unite to save lives through blood donation.

 

Competing to give

 

Running from 1 June to 31 August the challenge will see Victoria’s Emergency Service’s compete for the highest blood donation tally aiming to make more than 2,500 donations, potentially saving 7,500 lives.

 

Blood Service spokesman Campbell Richards said the service was entering a time of great need as donation cancellations peak with donors hit hard by colds and flu and the looming long weekend.

 

“We’re hoping our emergency service personnel leadership will inspire other Victorian’s to rise to the occasion and make an appointment to donate in June. This will be critical to helping the one in three Australians who will need donated blood this winter.”

 

Mr Richards said the Blood Service was particularly concerned about supplies over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.

 

“In addition to those who are unwell we anticipate many people will want to take a break over the long weekend,” he said.

 

“Yet the need for blood never stops, and patients fighting cancer, infections and blood diseases are relying on donated blood to keep them healthy throughout winter.

 

Get involved and give blood

 

VICSES Chief Officer Operations Trevor White urged the general public people to follow the lead of our Emergency Service workers and help to save lives this winter.

 

“Our volunteers are often busy saving lives outside of donor centres, but will still find the time to roll up their sleeves and donate blood,” Mr White said.

 

To donate call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au.

SES volunteers and staff can find more information on The Hub (log in required).

 

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