Defence Blood Challenge 2021 Calls for Essential Blood Donations

Defence personnel, ex-service members and their families across Australia are being encouraged to give blood or plasma as part of the 2021 Defence Blood Challenge.

The aim of this year’s event is for defence personnel and ex-service members to give blood or plasma more than 10,500 times and register their donation against their service tally.

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld said each blood donation could save up to three lives.

“One plasma donation can be used to create 18 different life-saving treatments, helping people with serious burns, cancer or brain disease.

“The demand for blood and plasma continues to grow, so there’s always more we can do.

“In 2020, more than 9,500 donations were made throughout the challenge. This year, we aim to roll up our sleeves 10,500 times to help those who rely on blood products to stay alive, or see them through a serious illness,” Air Marshal Hupfeld said.

Sally Gavin from the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood said the Blood Challenge is not only a fun way to encourage blood and plasma donations but is extremely beneficial for the Australian community.

“We are very grateful to the Department of Defence for their annual support,” Ms Gavin said.

Register your appointment at Australian Red Cross Lifeblood and start your donation journey today, remember to make your donation count towards your chosen Service, to add to their tally.

The 2021 Defence Blood Challenge will run until 8 December 2021.