As the Emergency Services Blood Challenge continues it’s important to remember the very real reason we are encouraging members to donate.
As CFA hits over 1000 lives saved it’s important to remember just how much each donation matters.
Baranduda Brigade Member Pat Barnes just made his 345th donation.
“I started donating when I was 18 years old; I knew it was something I could easily do to help.
“I continue to donate for that same reason.” Pat added. “You never know what’s going to happen in life and donating regularly is a way to help prior to it being too late.”
Pat said his first donation was at the Flinders Street Centre in Melbourne.
“I went to visit the building that I first donated a few years ago, however I couldn’t find it, that’s how long it’s been.
“I’ve donated in many different places including Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.
“I think I’ve very passionate about helping the community, that’s why I donate and that’s why I’m part of the CFA. “
29,000 donations are needed within Australia every week.
“I think donating is something everyone who is able to should think about doing.” Pat added “I’ve known many people who have needed multiple units of blood due to heath issues and that blood doesn’t just appear.
“It’s something that has to be regularly donated as blood only lasts 43 days.”
Junior Leader Gary Wattie is also part of the Baranduda Brigade and donated early this week.
“This donation was my 90th.” Gary said. “I think it’s important to keep donating even after the Blood Challenge has finished, that’s why I regularly donate with my son.”
