Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has a cheeky, but seriously life-saving message for Lismore and Northern Rivers locals in the lead-up to Easter.

They need a lot of buns on seats in their blood donor centres across the Easter holidays and April to ensure there is enough supply for hospital patients. That includes an additional 120 blood and plasma donors at Lifeblood’s donor centre in Lismore across the month of April.

Lifeblood spokesperson Scott Morrison said donation booking numbers need a boost throughout the Easter period and into April (March 29-April 30) while many donors travel or take a break from their routine.

“Blood is complex and cannot be synthetically produced, so we rely on the generosity of donors to ensure patients have access to the blood they need when they need it,” Scott Morrison said.

“We are urging Lismore, Ballina and Casino residents to step up, keep our donor centre chairs full and help maintain blood supplies at a critical time.”

Blood and blood products will be needed every 18 seconds this Easter weekend and throughout the school holidays across April by trauma and emergency patients, mums delivering babies, people with blood conditions and cancer patients.

Just one patient involved in a road accident can need high volumes of blood quickly to survive - as many as 100 bags depending on their injuries.

Platelets are also vital to combat life-threatening bleeding in emergency situations. Platelets act like tiny bandaids to clot blood, but only have a shelf life of seven days.

“You never know when you or someone you love may need blood,” Scott added.

“A blood donation only takes one hour, with just 5-10 minutes on the couch, while a plasma donation takes 90 minutes. 

“Our friendly team in Lismore is waiting to welcome donors and ease any nerves. You can enjoy some delicious snacks afterwards and leave knowing your life-giving donation will have a life-changing outcome.”

To book an appointment call 13 14 95, book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.