RED Cross Nambucca Valley branch is appealing for plasma donations from the community.

Branch spokesperson Lesley Smith said demand for plasma was currently outstripping supply.

“Blood is made up of four components – red blood cells; white blood cells, platelets and plasma,” she said.

“Why give plasma instead of blood? Donating plasma is a real game-changer.

“Plasma is the most versatile component of your blood and can be used in 18 different life-saving ways, including for cancer and leukaemia blood disorders, pregnancy complications, brain and nerve diseases, and immune deficiencies,” said Lesley.

“We are always looking to increase the supply of plasma from donors, to ensure patients across the country continue to receive the treatments they need.”

Plasma can be donated as often as every fortnight.

To become a plasma donor, you must be aged between 18 and 70 years, weigh 50 kilograms or more, and meet the eligibility requirements covered in the donor questionnaire.

“If you can donate blood, you can donate plasma,” said Lesley.

“One-and-a-half hours should be allowed for your first plasma donation, that’s to complete the donor questionnaire, an interview, the actual donation process, and a snack afterwards.

“Donors are our lifeblood, and what we do is only possible through the generosity of almost half a million voluntary donors,” said Lesley.

Phone 131 495, or go to the website www.lifeblood.org.au to donate.

Lesley also said the Red Cross Nambucca Valley branch members wanted to pay tribute to three loyal Red Cross supporters who recently died.

John Wood was a long-standing patron.

John Mills OAM, also a patron, contributed to the branch for many years.

Barbara Lowden was a branch member for more than 30 years and was a tireless worker for the cause.

“They will be sadly missed by all of us, may they rest in peace,” said Lesley.