Every year on June 14, people around the world will donate blood in honour of World Blood Donor Day, a celebration to raise awareness of the need for blood and to thank all voluntary donors.
Photo: by Toby Talbot/ AP Images
Transfusions of blood help save millions of lives each year. As stated on the World Health Organisation‘s site, blood donations can support surgeries, help patients with life-threatening conditions live longer, and help emergency response teams after a natural disaster.
Here’s a list of places that can help you find a blood drive near you:
- The Australian Red Cross Blood Service allows you to find a drive by entering your postcode or suburb.
- The New Zealand Blood Service has a list of donor centres, and you can also search for local blood drives.
Before considering donating, make sure you are eligible. In Australia, you may be able to donate blood if you’re 18 to 70 years old, healthy, and weigh over 50kg. New Zealand has similar restrictions, however people can donate from 16 years old provided they have the consent of their parent or guardian.
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