Ambulance Victoria is going beyond the call of duty this winter – not just on the roads, but in the donor chair.
The life-saving organisation is once again teaming up with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood for the annual Emergency Services Blood Drive, and staff are lining up to give a little of themselves, literally.
As part of the three-month campaign, running from June 1 to August 31, emergency service workers from Ambulance Victoria, fire, police, and SES sectors will go arm-in-arm in a friendly competition to boost blood, plasma and platelet donations.
Last year, Ambulance Victoria contributed more than 480 donations – and they’re determined to do even better this year.
Paramedic Stephanie Sherry and her parents Ruth and Ralph are among the everyday heroes stepping up to donate.
Together, the family has made more than 550 donations through Lifeblood’s Bundoora Donor Centre.
“We are looking forward to adding our donations to the Ambulance Victoria team,” Ms Sherry said.
“But knowing our donations can truly make a difference to patients and their families keeps us coming back. It’s our routine and in our blood to donate.”
Ms SHERRY knows the need all too well.
“As a paramedic, I see first-hand the people who require it in hospital. I see how common it can be and it’s from all sorts of jobs – from major traumas to cancer patients.”
She’s urging colleagues to join in.
“It’s a nice time to relax, read a book, listen to music etc. And do something good for the community,” Ms Sherry said.
“It’s such a small effort for a potentially massive impact.”
Lifeblood spokesperson Ashleigh Hales said, “Every day, we issue thousands of blood products to hospitals to meet growing patient demand…an hour of your time might give someone the rest of their life.”
Appointments can be made by calling 13 14 95, visiting lifeblood.com.au, or via the DonateBlood app.
