From one order to nationwide impact

A single order from Royal Darwin Hospital has marked an important milestone for Lifeblood, helping extend support to some of Australia’s most vulnerable patients across every state and territory. 

Thousands of babies are born premature every year, and when they arrive very early, they can face unique and serious health challenges. Breast milk can help reduce the risk of these challenges including a serious gut complication called necrotizing enterocolitis, or NEC. 

But some mums with premature bubs can’t supply enough breast milk because their own milk supply may not be available yet. That’s where donated breast milk can make a big difference, helping vulnerable babies through that critical time.  

Until recently, Lifeblood’s milk program supported hospitals across most of the country, but the Northern Territory wasn’t part of that network. That changed with Royal Darwin Hospital placing its first order, extending access to this vital support and making Lifeblood’s milk distribution truly national.  

The impact was immediate. The hospital used its first delivery within a week and quickly placed a larger follow-up order to support babies in its neonatal intensive care unit.  

Expanding to a national service is an important step for Lifeblood, and for the 1 in 10 babies born prematurely in Australia. With demand for donated milk climbing by 10% every year, we’re helping make sure every baby who needs donated breast milk can access it. 
 
But this is only part of the story, 

Every day across Australia, patients of all ages rely on the generosity of donors. Whether it’s a premature baby in need of donated breast milk, a child receiving plasma treatments, or someone recovering from surgery with the aid of red blood cells and platelets, donations help provide the time and stability patients need to keep going.