Across Victoria CFA people save lives every day. In 2019 they potentially saved 10,884 more - by donating blood.
Mount Eliza's Norman Coleman donated during this year's Emergency Services Challenge
Across Victoria, members made 3,628 individual donations in 2019, with about 1,000 donations coming during the three-month Emergency Services Blood Challenge, which runs from June to August every year.
Every donation of blood a person makes has the potential to save three lives, and in the case of platelet donations, support people with cancer through their chemotherapy treatment.
In 2020, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood (formerly Australian Red Cross) is focused on increasing the number of donations of plasma as it can be used to treat 18 different medical conditions including serious burns and brain and nerve diseases.
Caitlin Tredinnick from Mount Eliza Fire Brigade donates blood
“Our people are simply incredible in their capacity and willingness to give back,” CFA Wellbeing Consultant Naomi Engelke said.
“Each year we are amazed at the number of people who roll up their sleeves.
"Our people already make such a huge difference to the lives of Victorians and this generosity highlights just how strong their commitment is to others and to their communities.”
The Emergency Services Blood Challenge will start again in June 2020.
If you would like further information about donating blood visit Australian Red Cross Lifeblood or contact Naomi on 03 9262 8409 or n.engelke@cfa.vic.gov.au
Daniel Good from Mount Eliza donated blood as part of this year's Emergency Services Challenge
Author: Shaunnagh O'Loughlin