Olympic legends lend their support to call out

SUNSHINE Coast residents are being urged to roll up their sleeves and help save lives, with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood needing 15,000 plasma donations this month to recover a shortfall following a difficult winter illness season.

The nationwide appeal has the backing of some of Australia’s biggest Olympic names, including Cathy Freeman, Ian Thorpe, Cooper Woods and Cate Campbell, who have joined Lifeblood ambassador and plasma recipient Michael Klim in the ‘Go for Gold. Give Plasma.’ campaign.

Swimming legend Michael Klim receives intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment every six weeks, with each of his treatments sometimes requiring plasma from up to 25 donors.

“Most people don’t know that plasma-derived medicines help people like me manage serious health conditions and make everyday life possible,” he said.

“If you are eligible and well, please book an appointment now. Your donation could help someone like me.”

Plasma is used to make medicines for people with immune deficiencies and bleeding disorders, as well as supporting cancer and trauma patients, people undergoing surgery and women during pregnancy.

Despite the need, fewer than one per cent of Australians donate plasma, while demand for plasma medicines continues to rise. Lifeblood supplies more than 8100 plasma medicines and transfusions to Australian hospitals every day.

Chief Customer Officer Cath Stone said the winter illness season had kept many regular donors away, with appointments made in early September reaching their lowest point this year.

“We need more people to book a donation now and make plasma donation part of their regular routine,” Ms Stone said.

“You do not need to be an Olympian to do something extraordinary. Donating plasma is a practical way to give back and help patients across the country.”

The appeal coincides with International Plasma Awareness Week, which ran from October 5-9.

Where to donate locally

*Maroochydore Donor Centre: Level 1, 144 Horton Parade, Maroochydore.

*Australian Red Cross Lifeblood at Nambour General Hospital, 19 Nambour–Mapleton Road, Nambour.

*Australian Red Cross Lifeblood at Sunshine Coast University Hospital mobile donor centre: Frazer Lane, Birtinya.

Residents should check that plasma donation appointments are available at their chosen location before travelling. To book: Visit lifeblood.com.au, download the Lifeblood app or call 13 14 95 to check eligibility and make an appointment.

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