The gift of blood is life-changing

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Beat the winter blues by giving blood this month. As a recent first-time blood donor finally attending Frankston’s Lifeblood Donor Centre after much nervous deliberation, it came as a surprise to discover how uplifting the experience felt. Whether it was the warmth that came from knowing I was potentially saving a life or the delicious free hot chocolate and biscuits enjoyed after donating blood, there was a spring in my step as I walked away from the centre.

Another surprise was how painless it was to donate. Here is where preparation pays off. Drinking eight glasses of water the day before and having 750ml of water and a slice of Vegemite toast the morning before giving blood was, according to the friendly Lifeblood team member, absolutely the best thing to do – with the bonus that it made me feel healthier too.

Relaxing in the lounge area and sipping a warm drink afterwards, I noticed tables were dotted with leaflets announcing the current results of a team challenge. There’s nothing like a bit of friendly rivalry to get the blood pumping, and it appears sports clubs, work colleagues and social groups are all vying for their team to achieve the No.1 position for the most donations given. What a fabulous idea for a bonding exercise.

As an additional incentive, Lifeblood has a special rewards program for repeat donors, who can choose from goodies such as travel cups, beanies, blankets and caps.

The feel-good mood continued well after visiting the centre. A week later a text arrived informing me my donation was already on its way to a hospital in Warrnambool. Even though I was hunkering down indoors this winter, my blood was on the move.

Supplies of several blood types are dangerously low in Victoria, and I will be stepping up to donate again soon. Give it a go. It’s easier than you think, and every donation can save up to three lives.

Lifeblood has a dedicated donor centre at Davey St in Frankston and a mobile donor centre occasionally operating from Bunnings Warehouse in Rosebud, returning in early October.

For more details or to make a booking, phone 13 14 95 or visit www.lifeblood.com.au

DANIELLE DAVEY