Photo: Aireys Inlet firefighter Andrew Wilson makes his first blood donation for Emergency Services Blood Drive 2023.
For Andrew Wilson, donating blood is akin to volunteering with CFA – just another way to help others.
The Aireys Inlet firefighter undertook his first-ever blood donation on Saturday 17 June as part of the 2023 Red Cross Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive.
“I was inspired by my wife, who is a regular blood donor,” he said. “I’ve wanted to do it for a long time, so I thought it was time to step up and do it myself and take part in the drive.”
Andrew said the whole process was a lot quicker than he expected.
“Aside from the interview beforehand to determine your suitability, the actual blood draw took him less than 15 minutes,” he said.
“Plus, you get all the treats at the end.”
Likening the process to his experience as a volunteer firefighter, Andrew said it’s a great way to give back.
“It’s another way to give back and another way to help people,” he said.
“It’s an extension of what we do at CFA, while it might not be in our direct community, it’s still helping others.”
“It’s pretty neat, you get a text message a few days after your donation, and it tells you where your blood has gone – mine was sent to the Mornington Peninsula.”
He encouraged those who may be thinking about getting involved to do so.
“It's easy – just do it!”
“You get a milkshake at the end, which is something to look forward to, but it’s super easy and probably sounds a lot scarier than it actually is, so pull together and join in the cause.”
The Red Cross Emergency Services Blood Drive runs from 1 June – 31 August. You can find out more at www.lifeblood.com.au.