Blood donor champion aims to inspire

Flight Lieutenant Sam Edwards recently notched up his 50th blood donation in Melbourne as part of the Defence Blood Challenge.

With the challenge wrapping up on December 8, he is hoping his desire to help others will motivate the like-minded to also roll up their sleeves and donate life-saving blood.

Flight Lieutenant Edwards said being able to help the vulnerable by giving blood continues to be an incredibly rewarding experience.

“I decided to donate because I highly value helping out my fellow humans,” he said.

Flight Lieutenant Edwards has the relatively rare O negative blood type and because of his especially high platelet count, he has been matched to an individual who depends on his donations.

“When someone is in need, and I can directly provide assistance to them, it’s a part of my nature to do so. I believe it’s a facet of Australian culture that we help out our mates, and all it costs is a little time to directly improve their life,” he said.

Flight Lieutenant Edwards believes now is a particularly important time for Air Force members to step up and donate blood where they can.

“In the ADF, we are in the business of helping our mates,” Flight Lieutenant Edwards said.

“It’s just as tangible to assist someone by filling a sandbag to protect their home from flood waters, as it is donating to Lifeblood – both scenarios assist and protect lives. The difference is blood products are needed all year round.

CAPTION: Flight Lieutenant Samuel Edwards being officially declared a Lifeblood Champion after making his 50th blood donation in Melbourne as part of the Defence Blood Challenge. Story by John Noble.

“As silly as it may sound, I think giving part of myself to help save a life is the closest thing we can get to a super power.”

Platelet donors can donate every two weeks, with general blood donations every four. Changing more lives more often.

The Defence Blood Challenge runs until December 8 and anyone wishing to donate can do so through the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood at www.lifeblood.com.au.

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