World Blood Donor Day

It's June 14th which is World Blood Donor Day.

I'm thankful each and every day for those who take the time to donate blood. Without my 4 weekly infusion of Intragam (made from donated blood and plasma), I wouldn't have any antibodies to be able to fight viruses or infections.

I also had a lot of bleeding issues during my double lung tranplant. I found out at Haemotology Clinic last week that I needed nine units of blood products (that's a whole lot) including whole blood, red cells, and platelets. I still have a few issues with my platelet counts and so I may still need more.

So I really want to say thankyou to anyone who has donated blood, but especially to those who are regular donors. You seriously are absolute lifesavers! Without you I most certainly wouldn't still be here.

If you'd like to donate, you can book online or simply just call 131495

Thankyou x

Edited: Serendipitously I received a letter from Haemotolgy Clinic in the mail today with a proper listing of what blood products I received during transplant:

6 units red cells
1200mL on the cell saver returned
Cryoprecipitate
7 units FFP (fresh frozen plasma)
1 unit of platelets

Roll Up Roll Up

Your sleeves that is!

Did you know that it's National Blood Donor Awareness Week?

Every four weeks I have an infusion of Intragam P (or liquid gold as us recipients like to call it). It keeps me healthy as I have an antibody deficiency and can't fight off viruses and bacteria without it.

Intragam is made from the plasma component of blood and contains replacement antibodies which are used to treat not only primary immune system deficiencies, but also a variety of autoimmune disorders. 


Every four weeks when I go in for an infusion, I post an Instagram of my Intragam. Yes, it's true.... it doesn't take much to amuse me. In fact, if you search for #intragam on Instagram, you just get random photos from people who can't spell when they hashtag.

Looking back through my photos and making a collage is a great reminder to be eternally grateful, and makes me appreciate blood donors even more.

If you've made it this far, then call 131495 and make an appointment, or you can even book online.

An Easter Reminder

Amy reminded me tonight that she has booked to donate blood again this week, so I thought it was the perfect time to remind everyone else as well.

Easter is an extremely busy time for the Australian Red Cross Blood Service. Lots of regular donors go away on holidays, and there are many more accidents on our roads. Each week, more than 27.000 donations are required to help patients in need.

You can read about why I need donated blood here.

Check the Easter opening hours here.

Although you can book online, this only allows you to book for an appointment in six days time. If you wish to donate prior to Easter, please call 131495.

PS - The ARCBS has many more permanent donation centres running recently, so it's definitely worth checking whether there is a new one near you!