Lifeblood celebrates a nation of donors

Life-saving donors will be celebrated in donor centres across the country from the end of the month, with a specially designed bandage by Indigenous artist, Brad Hore.

Brad, a Dunghutti man, is a two-time Olympian, having represented Australia in boxing in Sydney in 2000 and Athens in 2004. He said the limited-edition bandage acknowledges the life-changing impacts of a community of giving.

“It’s an honour to partner with Lifeblood and recognise the giving nature of every person who walks through the doors of donor centres to save the lives of others,” explained Brad.

The Indigenous health and community worker said the artwork on the bandage also paid tribute to all those who have “encouraged mob and community to give back and believe in something bigger.”

“It represents those coming to give blood and the transfer and gift of life itself. With the support of community behind us, we are capable of anything, including saving the lives of others.”

Anyone who donates blood and plasma between Monday, 29 July and Sunday, 8 September will receive the bespoke bandage designed by Brad, who turned to art during the pandemic when his mental health struggled, and he needed a new focus.

“During COVID and the passing of my father, I used painting as a self-care tool. It helped with my mental health and ways to express myself,” said Brad.

“I hope that donors who wear my bandage will feel proud to be a part of a community that is connected, appreciated, and honoured for what they each contribute.”

Australia has over half a million active donors who’ve donated blood products to help treat numerous life-threatening conditions, including cancer, trauma and during life-saving surgery.

However, with demand for blood, plasma and blood products increasing, Lifeblood needs even more people to join this critical and generous blood donor community.

“If you have been thinking about donating, now is the time to make an appointment and join this all-important community of blood donors,” said Cath Stone, Lifeblood’s Executive Director Donor Experience.

“It’s also a great opportunity to celebrate our very generous donors – our everyday heroes – who can save up to three lives with just one donation,” she said. 

The limited-edition bandage will be available to anyone who rolls up their sleeves to give life from Monday, 29 July to Sunday, 8 September. 

You can book a donation now by calling 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.