25 November 2020
The number of blood donations from pilots at No. 2 Flying Training School has taken off thanks to a break in flying commitments offered by a safety day.
The pilots, based at RAAF Base Pearce, rolled up their sleeves to donate blood and plasma on November 19 at the Midland Lifeblood Donor Centre as part of the Defence Blood Challenge.
Pilot Officer Mitchell Bamonte said he was happy to be part of the challenge and give back to the community.
“This could mean the difference between life and death for some people - it’s an important cause and it feels great to be involved,” he said.
The Defence Blood Challenge is in its final weeks.
Navy, Army, Air Force and Defence Australian Public Service personnel are competing to see which group can make the most blood donations.
The challenge ends on December 8.
The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood team needs 31,000 donations every week across Australia to help patients in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, pregnancy and a host of other situations.
Australian Red Cross Blood Service Partnerships Group account manager Gemma McDavitt said the importance of having a regular and reliable blood supply in Australia could not be underestimated.
“Every donation can save up to three lives,” she said.
“Your donation can give someone the chance to live the life they love.”
To book a blood or plasma donation, visit lifeblood.com.au, phone 13 14 95 or download the Donate Blood app.
