Lauren, Greta and Bob Knowles know the importance of blood donations.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
One simple donation helped save four-year-old Greta Knowles — a gift her family hope others will give this Christmas.
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The Knowles family are calling on the community to donate blood this festive season after donations played a critical role in saving their daughter Greta during her two-year battle with leukaemia.
“After a whole blood transfusion, Greta would have so much colour and energy,” her mum, Lauren Knowles, said.
“The platelet transfusions helped her blood clot properly during chemotherapy — they were absolutely vital.”
Now healthy, Greta has a message for all donors.
“You’re a hero,” she said. “You’re saving lives.”
Mrs Knowles, who donated blood years ago, returned to donating regularly after seeing how many children in the oncology ward relied on donated blood to survive.
“I got back into it after Greta got sick and seeing just how many kids needed blood for their treatment,” she said.
Lifeblood’s Shepparton Donor Centre is now urging locals to book an appointment to help boost blood and plasma stocks, which are essential for patients during the busy holiday period.
Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns said donating blood was one of the most powerful ways people could make a difference this Christmas.
“Blood will be needed by road accident patients, pregnant mums, cancer patients and premature babies every day throughout December — including Christmas and new year,” Ms Burns said.
“With many people taking time off during the break, we need those who can donate to step up and be the gift Australian patients need.”
Ms Burns also thanked the community for their strong response this week.
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has come in to donate since Monday — many for the very first time,” she said.
As a festive thank you, donors who give between now and January 4 will receive a limited-edition bandage.
Shepparton Donor Centre opening hours:
December 24: 7.30am to 3pm; December 25: closed; December 26: 7.30am to 3pm; December 31: 7.30am to 3pm; and January 1: closed.
The entire donation process takes about an hour.
To book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Lifeblood app.
Shepparton mother Lauren Knowles donating blood. She encourages her community to do the same, after her daughter’s life was saved thanks to blood donations.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
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