Geelong and Surf Coast locals are being urged again to roll up their sleeves and donate blood.
Lifeblood says more than 20 thousand people either cancelled, rescheduled or did not attend their appointments nationally last week, leading to pressure on blood supplies.
There are more than 50 appointments available at the Geelong donor centre before Friday.
Lifeblood Executive Director Donor Experience Cath Stone says there is a desperate need for more donations.
“We know the festive season is a busy time of year, and everyone looks forward to a well-earned break, but the need for blood has not stopped,” she said.
“Every day, we are issuing more than 9,500 blood and plasma transfusions and medications to Australian hospitals.
“There are still cancer patients, road trauma victims, new mums and newborn babies, and people with immune deficiencies that are relying on the generosity of blood donors.
“Now that the holiday season has come to an end and people are returning to their normal routines, we’re hoping more people will find an hour in their schedule to save lives.”
