Hastings blood donations gratefully received

The New Zealand Blood Service has given a big shout-out to everyone who donated blood in Hastings this week, their contribution potentially saving hundreds of lives.

The mobile service was at Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre this week, with 198 people donating on Tuesday and Wednesday, and about 100 people expected again on Thursday, said New Zealand Blood Service donor relations team manager Steve Dalgety.

“This has been an amazing turnout, more than on previous occasions, and we would like to say a massive thank you to those who donated, with each donation saving up to three lives.”

Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst was among those who donated, and said it was rewarding that this simple act could mean the difference between life and death for someone in need.

“We’ve had a great turn out in Hastings during this visit to Toitoi – all those people who have donated have made a hugely valuable contribution to their community.”

Mr Dalgety said 96 per cent of New Zealanders who were eligible to donate blood didn’t – perhaps thinking there would always be a blood supply.

“Our goal is to increase the number of people giving.

“It’s important to support our community – at some stage in our lives either ourselves or someone we know will need blood – we can’t assume there is always going to be a blood supply because everyone else is donating.”

He said blood donations were used to save lives in many situations – from extreme trauma from the likes of car accidents to childbirth, cancer treatment, burns treatment and unexpected events such as the Christchurch mosque shootings.

“There’s always something that comes up that we need to be prepared for.”

Toitoi Kaiwhakahaere Ratonga Rangatōpū - Corporate Services Manager Coltan Wright said they leapt at the opportunity to support NZ health services.

“Supporting our community is such a big part of our kaupapa here at Toitoi, so we were more than happy to accommodate NZ Blood Service for the three days. It also helped that their event was ‘immune’ to Level 2 restrictions, as there’s so much room for them to socially distance the donation chairs if needed.”

If people missed out this time the mobile service would be returning to Toitoi next year, January 12 to 14, and would also be in Napier at the Sailing Club on West Quay this coming November 3 to 5.

To help ensure people weren’t turned away because of capacity, he advised donors to book an appointment online at www.nzblood.co.nz or call 0800 448 325.

25 September 2020

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