After hitting 200 plasma donations in June, it’s no surprise Army School of Ordnance distribution operator instructor Sergeant Matthew Moran is eagerly rolling up his sleeve for the 2023 Defence Blood Drive.
Sergeant Moran has donated more than180 litres of blood, with each donation able to be used in 18 life-giving treatments.
After 14 years of donations, however, he’s not counting the litres, just his blessings.
“My wife had a couple of blood transfusions when our second son was born, she just kept haemorrhaging,” Sergeant Moran said.
“It was really then that I started thinking, ‘there’s a lot of people in a lot worse position than me, it’s just 90 minutes out of my life’.
“There could even be a time in my future where I actually need a vital plasma donor to provide their lifeblood in support of me.”
This year, Defence is aiming to collect 11,000 donations between September 1 and December 8.
For the first time, the Australian public are encouraged to donate towards the target by choosing their preferred Service – Army, Navy or Air Force – or the Australian Public Service.
The Blood Drive is the longest-running annual blood donation event in support of the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, showing Defence’s long-standing relationship with the organisation.
By donating, Defence members will see for themselves how their donated blood saves lives, but for Sergeant Moran, it’s all about providing a helping hand.
“Being a member of the Australian Army is something I am very proud of – being able to give something back,” he said.
“What makes Australia great is its people. Being an active Lifeblood member is just another way for me to give something back to those in the community that need our support.
“I’d encourage everyone who can to give it a crack, it’s very worthwhile. The staff at the lifeblood centre are wonderful; they’re experts at what they do.
“Whether you’re a new donor or a returning donor, just get involved, it’s the least we can do.”
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