The Easter holiday period is a critical time for hospitals to manage blood stocks. As donors are in short supply due to taking holidays, the demand for blood components in hospitals increases.
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That's why more than 30 donors are needed at the Taree centre during the Easter and Anzac Day period to avoid a critical shortage of blood products.
Blood Service spokesperson Jemma Falkenmire said while blood will be needed by many Australians during the period, supply isn't guaranteed unless more donors roll up their sleeves.
"The need for blood doesn't take a holiday, so we're urging locals to factor a blood donation into their plans this Easter.
The need for blood doesn't take a holiday, so we're urging locals to factor a blood donation into their plans this Easter.
- Jemma Falkenmire, Blood Service spokesperson
"We need donations in the lead up and following the Easter long weekend, to ensure Australian patients receive the blood they need," Ms Falkenmire said.
One blood component sought by hospitals is platelets.
"Platelets are the clotting agent of blood- vital in the treatment of many cancers and to combat life-threatening bleeding from road trauma and and in other emergency situations.
"Unfortunately, platelets have a shelf-life of just five days which means we can't stockpile them and need continuous donations during this time to meet demand," Ms Falkenmire said.
One in three Australians will need blood in their lifetime but only one in 30 currently donates.
"The life you help save this Easter could be that of a family member or close friend," Ms Falkenmire said.
During the week of Easter and Anzac Day, Taree Blood Donor Centre will be open on Thursday, April 18, Tuesday, April 23 and Wednesday, April 24.
To book an appointment, call 13 14 95 or visit www.donateblood.com.au.
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