Superintendents across four police Local Area Commands (LAC) came together at Nepean Donor Centre last week to donate blood as part of the Emergency Services Challenge for 2016.
Superintendents Greg Peters from St Marys LAC, Brett McFadden from Penrith LAC, Darryl Jobson from Blue Mountains LAC and Steve Egginton from Hawkesbury LAC all donated blood last Wednesday, June 1, ahead of an expected shortfall in blood donors throughout the winter months.
Superintendent Peters from St Marys LAC said donating blood is a worthwhile cause.
“I donate blood regularly, having donated over 100 times, because I think it is really important to do, especially when one donation can potentially save three lives,” he said.
“People, whether they are emergency services personnel or members of the public, should definitely do it – it doesn’t take long and the staff at the centres are fantastic.”
Senior Constable Luke Warburton from Blue Mountains LAC, who was shot earlier this year at Nepean Hospital and sustained very heavy blood loss, was also at the centre to support the men during their donations.
Blood Service spokesperson, Brenda Armstrong, said the hope is for emergency service personnel to inspire others to donate.
“Winter is always a difficult time for blood donations because you need to be feeling 100 per cent well to donate,” she said.
“We’re concerned the flu season combined with the long weekend, when many donors are away, could result in a drop in donations.
“Patients fighting cancer, infections and blood diseases are relying on donated blood to keep them healthy throughout winter.”
The Emergency Services Challenge finishes on Wednesday, August 31, and is part of the Blood Service’s Red25 program, a unique giving program uniting with groups and organisations around Australia to save lives through blood donation.
To donate, call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au to book a time that is convenient to you.
Nepean Donor Centre is located at Unit 9, 69 York Road, Jamisontown.
