One of the most important gifts people can give this Christmas will be blood, according to the Australian Red Cross.
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Almost 400 blood donors are needed at the Launceston Donor Centre between December 23 and January 4.
In what's been dubbed the biggest "Secret Santa" exchange this Christmas, Lifeblood spokeswoman Ann Harvey urged people to think of others.
"Nearly 400 donors are needed to prevent a possible shortage of blood stocks vital to the treatment of cancer patients," she said.
"With many people taking time off this holiday season we need those who can to step up and be a life-changing Secret Santa to Australian patients in need, ensuring no one misses out on receiving this incredible gift. Even those who are on holidays in Tasmania can donate at one of our local centres."
In other news:
Launceston's Matthew Beyer understands the importance of making extra donations at this time of year.
On Thursday the 21-year-old donated plasma at the Launceston donor centre and has already made his next appointment for Boxing Day.
Ms Harvey said blood will be needed by road accident patients, pregnant mums, cancer patients and even premature babies every day over Christmas and New Year.
Stocks of platelets, a blood component vital to the treatment of cancer patients, were also particularly at risk during the holiday period.
"It takes four blood donations to make just one bag of platelets for patients and they only last for five days so donors are constantly needed to ensure cancer patients get this vital product," she said.
"Your blood donation will be the ultimate gift to Australian patients this Christmas - and will have a far-reaching impact on the lives you save, and the lives of their loved ones."
To celebrate the Secret Santa blood exchange, donors will receive a card to give to someone, letting them know they gave blood on their behalf.
Ms Harvey said they would also be giving someone somewhere the most precious gift - life.
"If Secret Santa is about giving anonymous gifts designed to make someone's day, then blood donation really is Australia's ultimate Secret Santa exchange," she said.
All Tasmanian donor centres will be closed on Christmas and New Years Day.
- Call 13 14 95 or visit lifeblood.com.au.
Jessica Willard
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
