“Right now, less than 4% of eligible New Zealanders are blood donors”, says NZBS CEO Sam Cliffe. “Since 2016 our need for plasma has increased by 38% and is forecast to continue to grow. This year alone we need to collect over 70 tonnes of plasma. Relying on just 4% of our population to ensure lifesaving blood and blood products are available for all, is no longer feasible. If the country is going to be able to continue to meet demand, we need more people to rise to the challenge and help us build the World’s Biggest Reserve Bench”.
Ms Cliffe says all New Zealanders understand the need to have a strong reserve bench, it’s what makes our sporting teams so great. So, what better person to lead the rallying call for 100,000 new donors than Sir Graham Henry, a man who knows more than a thing or two about building a world-class reserve bench. A former blood donor himself, Sir Graham also understands the importance of blood donation.
“I think this could be the most important reserve bench of my career”, says Sir Graham Henry.
Joining the Reserve Bench is not about giving blood right away, it’s a commitment to be there when you are needed. Reaching our goal of 100,000 people on the World’s Biggest Reserve Bench will maintain a healthy support system for blood and blood products for the entire country, one that’s on standby and can be called upon when needed.
family and colleagues to join in your place. There is only one way to build the World’s Biggest Reserve Bench, and this is by unifying the country and working together”.
It’s really simple to get involved. All you need to do is visit www.jointhebench.co.nz. Once you’ve signed up, don’t forget to encourage family and friends by sharing Sir Graham’s video. Let’s build the World’s Biggest Reserve Bench, together.