Let’s hear from our team on what inspired them to get involved, plus practical tips for first-time donors.
Marc Brown, Regional Experience Manager
I was encouraged to donate blood by one of my colleagues back in 2015 in Hobart. I was surprised to learn that there are specific eligibility criteria for donating blood, and this sparked a conversation among us about how important it is to give blood. I then found that there is a Telstra Lifeblood team here, and I’ve been part of this group where I share my experiences and photos with others when I donate plasma.
I did have a bit of a fear of needles before, and the whole process was scary the first time around. But once I went through it, I realised it was not as bad as I thought. I feel proud about doing something good and being part of a community that’s making a huge difference. It’s great how Telstra supports us by providing blood donation leave. Giving blood makes me feel grateful and proud to be able to contribute to the well-being of others.
David Wallace, Network Engineer
Being part of the Telstra Lifeblood Team has been encouraging as I get to share my experiences (and milestones) with others. For me, my start goes back to the time I went along with a colleague who was a donor, and I’ve been donating ever since. Knowing that I could be making a significant difference to someone’s health motivates me. It’s not just a “thank you and see you next time” - I get notifications about how the blood or other blood products are put to use. I appreciate that. Give it a go – it can be a life-changing experience.
Fiona Mahony, Architecture Principal
I returned to being a donor after a lapse of many years because Telstra set up the Lifeblood team – I thought it was something worth doing. The bit with the needle only takes a moment but the warm glow you get from knowing your blood is being used to save lives - lasts for days!
The part I like the most about the entire experience is getting the text message, several days later telling me how and where my blood is being used.
Kylie Paton, Senior High Risk Improvement Lead
I became a donor in my 20s because it felt like the right thing to do. Giving has become even more personal for me since my husband required multiple blood transfusions in 2016 after a near fatal cycling accident left him in the ICU fighting for his life. I also found out on my 48th donation that my blood is able to be given to newborn babies, which is apparently rare, so that is another driving factor for me to give as often as I can.
It can feel daunting for first-timers, but the Telstra Lifeblood Team is very supportive. Having come so close to losing the love of my life and knowing if it wasn't for the amazing donors who regularly give of their time to donate, he wouldn't be here with us today. This really makes giving up an hour or so of my time a very small thing to do.
Jackson Marshall, Business Analyst
My first memories of blood donation involve me joining my Mum on her regular plasma appointments and enjoying free milkshakes from the staff – what kid wouldn't want to go with that sweet deal? If I'm fit and healthy enough to visit my local donor centre for under two hours every fortnight and can leave with my head held high that someone out there has benefited greatly from my efforts, then give me one good reason why not!
My tips for anyone donating, whether for their first, tenth or hundredth visit: drink plenty of water beforehand, eat something savoury the day of and even red meat or high-iron foods the days prior, take a bathroom break before you sit down and get too comfortable (you have just consumed quite a bit of water), wear warm clothing, request heat packs if you experience any cold or chilly sensations, and bring a book!
Tony West, Data Insights Analytics Senior Analyst
I became a donor after one of my friends was diagnosed with cancer and needed plasma. It made me think: I can just sit in a chair and donate blood products, and people like my friend get to live better. Well, it turned out that I am in a fairly rare situation (both O- and CMV-), so my platelets are classed as medically pure. It's become a bigger thing for me now; my platelets go to a specific matched patient and my plasma goes into the pool. If you’ve never donated before, come join us!
Tracee Rix, Customer Specialist
There’s such a sense of camaraderie and unity within our Telstra Lifeblood team. It’s inspiring to see how our collective efforts are making a real difference in our community. The thought of potentially saving someone's life through a simple act of donating blood is incredibly motivating for me. It's a small act that can make a big difference.
Share your story about what blood donation means to you
In light of National Blood Donor Week that ran in June, we’re proud to see the great work Team Telstra is doing to support a great cause all year round! To join our Telstra Lifeblood Team and be part of our life-saving community, contact Jackson Marshall or Geoff Gerrand on Viva Engage or Teams.
Inspired? Find out more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Telstra.
