LIFEBLOOD is appealing for more donors to help stock up blood and plasma supplies after a busy school holiday period, punctuated by Easter and the upcoming ANZAC Day long weekend. Lifeblood spokesperson Cath Stone said every day Lifeblood issues more than 9500 bags of blood, plasma and medications to Australian hospitals. She said the need for blood doesn’t stop when the rest of Australia takes a holiday. Blood donation plays a critical role in saving the lives of Australians every day. In fact, just one blood donation can save up to three lives. Lifeblood is also reminding people not to rule themselves out from donating if they are travelling overseas. “If you're heading overseas, you might have to wait to donate blood, but you could be eligible to donate plasma as soon as you’re back,” Cath said. “Visit our website to check your eligibility because it can change depending on where you travelled to. "You never know – you could be able to save a life sooner than you think.” The Wangaratta Donor Centre in Norton Street has availability for blood donors on ANAC Day, and spots available for plasma donors all this week. Anyone who makes a donation up until 25 May will receive an exclusive, Easter-themed bandage by Melbourne artist Alice Oehr. To book an appointment, call 13 14 95, or visit https://www.lifeblood.com.au/donor-centre/vic/wangaratta-donor-centre
