The Australian Red Cross Blood Service would like to recognise our teenage blood donors for their leadership and community spirit.

Last year, more than ten percent of all our donors were aged between 16 and 18 years of age. That’s almost 56,500 teenagers who have selflessly given up their time, and their blood, to help someone else.

The international theme for 2010 World Blood Donor Day is 'Youth', and Australia has a lot to celebrate.

Blood Service Chief Executive Jennifer Williams said millions of people across Australia owe their lives to people they will never meet…and thousands of the generous donors are teenagers.

“World Blood Donor Day is a chance for blood donors and blood recipients to pause and reflect on the role they play in each others’ lives,” Ms Williams said. “All our donors are important, but this year, we would like to especially recognise our young donors.”

This year, the Blood Service will collect around 1.4 million blood donations for people battling cancer, heart, stomach and bowel disease, accident or trauma or to address complications in pregnancy and childbirth

“These are ordinary people doing an extraordinary thing to help others. . When you think that each blood donation saves up to three lives, they are showing what it means to be part of humanity,” Ms Williams said.

“From 16 to 70, from all walks of life, and with all types of blood, we need more people to reflect on the role they could play in the lives of others this World Blood Donor Day.”

More than 80 countries unite every year to celebrate the day with diplomats, dignitaries and civic leaders gathering to recognise the importance of donors voluntarily giving blood so others may live.

If you are interested in donating blood please call 13 14 95 to make an appointment or register your interest.