Members of the new Force Structure Operations team are leading the charge and setting an example through their recent donations of blood and plasma to Lifeblood.
Force Structure Operations is an integrated triservice ADF and APS team responsible for the management, unification and integration of Defence organisational structures, servicing ADF position management needs for groups and services across Defence.
For Force Structure Operations team leader Squadron Leader Emma Kay, donating blood is a deeply personal cause.
"I donate because my mum donated regularly for many years until she was unable to after being diagnosed with multiple myeloma (cancer of the plasma cells, which starts in the bone marrow) in 2013, aged 64," Squadron Leader Kay said.
Her mother relied on many blood transfusions post-diagnosis while she underwent treatment until she died in 2022.
"I have seen first-hand the importance of donating blood and the difference it makes. My mum relied on the generosity of others to help treat her disease and it ultimately kept her with us for longer, which we are incredibly grateful for," she said.
Squadron Leader Kay encourages everyone to donate to help those in need.
"If you have ever thought about donating, but have never done it, or if it's been a while since your last donation, do it. Your generosity can save someone's life," she said.
A Lifeblood mobile donor centre will be at Brindabella Park from August 26 to 30. ADF and APS members interested in donating blood can book an appointment at www.lifeblood.com.au by clicking the 'Book now' icon.
