Medical Students Launch National Blood Drive

The Australian Medical Students’ Association (AMSA) is today launching its annual National Blood Drive in conjunction with the Australian Red Cross Blood Service (ARCBS).
In what is AMSA’s major public health initiative, medical students from Australia’s 17 medical schools donate blood throughout the month of August, and compete to win the coveted Vampire Cup.
“The AMSA National Blood drive is a fantastic chance for students to give back to their communities,” AMSA National President, Mr Rob Mitchell said.
“To donate blood is to give the gift of life, and medical students are acutely aware of this. AMSA is proud to launch its annual blood drive and foster a sense of community spirit amongst its members.”
Medical student societies across the country will be rallying their members to donate blood this August. As last year’s winner of the Vampire Cup, the Australian National University will be working hard to defend their title against some stiff competition from enthusiastic medical schools across Australia.
“We are delighted that AMSA is encouraging its members to donate blood for the Vampire Cup during August,” ARCBS National Operations Manager, Dr Pip Hetzel, said.
“As Australia’s health care professionals of the future, they understand that every donation will save lives, and that they can set an example as blood donors now and throughout their careers.”
The AMSA National Blood Drive has run successfully since the year 2000, and aims to encourage, not only medical students, but also family, friends, and colleagues to donate blood and contribute to this worthy cause.