Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has launched its annual Emergency Services Blood Drive, calling on police, ambulance, fire personnel and emergency services members to take part in a friendly competition aimed at boosting blood donations nationwide.
The three-month campaign, running from June 1 through to August 31, challenges emergency services across the country to get involved and highlights the urgent need for plasma, blood and platelet donations.
Among those involved in the challenge and donating to the cause is Senior Constable Karen Watson, who celebrated a significant milestone, having marked her 450th donation.
Senior Constable Watson has been donating regularly since she was 18 years old and encourages everyone to participate.
"I just feel very blessed to have enjoyed good health and being able to share it," Senior Constable Watson said.
"Donating blood and plasma is now a regular activity for me and I plan to continue donating as long as I possibly can.
"Blood donations typically decline during the colder months as people become more susceptible to sickness and are unable to donate, so it's an especially critical time for donations.
"As a police officer, I have seen first-hand the impact of blood donations and how far they go in saving lives.
"It's an incredibly easy process and I encourage everyone to get involved."
Emergency services personnel witness the impacts of blood donations on a regular basis, when responding to trauma and medical emergencies and by taking part in the drive – they are directly serving their communities in more ways than one.
As demand for blood and plasma continues to increase at record levels, Lifeblood spokesperson Liam Richardson said he hopes the Queensland community will follow the lead of their inspiring emergency services and book a donation.
"Every day, we issue close to 10,000 blood products and medications to hospitals around the country to meet patient demand, and we would love to see more people in Queensland support our emergency services and join our movement of donors," Mr Richardson said.
To make a donation, call 13 14 95, book online at lifeblood.com.au or download the DonateBlood App.
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