One Blood Donation with three lifesaving powers

June 5, 2025

Blood is more than just a vital fluid—it’s a lifeline. In Fiji, hundreds of people rely on donated blood every year to survive accidents, undergo life-saving surgeries, recover from childbirth complications, and fight diseases such as cancer and dengue fever.

 

What many don’t realize is that a single donation can be separated into three powerful components—red blood cells, platelets, and plasma—each used to treat different critical conditions in hospitals across the country. From CWM Hospital in Suva to Lautoka and Labasa Hospitals, these components are in constant demand.

 

Let’s break down how your one act of giving can touch not just one, but three lives.

 

 Red Blood Cells: Delivering Oxygen, Saving Lives

 

Red blood cells (RBCs) carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When a person loses a large amount of blood—through trauma, surgery, or childbirth—they may need RBC transfusions to prevent organ failure and death.

 

In Fiji, red cell transfusions are essential for:

 

  • Accident and trauma victims
  • Mothers with childbirth complications
  • Patients undergoing major surgeries
  • Individuals with severe anemia

 

Platelets: The Body’s Natural First Aid

 

Platelets are tiny cell fragments that help blood clot. Without enough platelets, even minor injuries can lead to life-threatening bleeding. Cancer patients, dengue sufferers, and those with blood disorders often depend on platelet transfusions for survival.

 

In Fiji, platelets are especially needed for:

 

  • Cancer treatments
  • Dengue fever-related bleeding
  • Surgical procedures
  • Blood clotting conditions

 

 Plasma: The Golden Fluid That Heals

 

Plasma is the liquid portion of blood that contains clotting factors, antibodies, and proteins vital for recovery. It plays a key role in immune response and healing, especially in emergencies like trauma or infectious disease outbreaks.

 

Plasma saves lives in Fiji by supporting:

 

  • Emergency trauma care
  • Severe burn and injury recovery
  • Complicated infections
  • Disaster-related injuries and bleeding disorders

 

 

Why Blood Donation Matters in Fiji

 

Every donated unit of blood can be separated into red cells, platelets, and plasma—meaning your donation can help three different people.

 

With blood drives organized regularly by the Fiji National Blood Service in Suva, Lautoka, Nadi, Labasa, and beyond, there are ongoing opportunities to give. But the demand is constant—and increasing—especially during public health emergencies, road accidents, and natural disasters.

 

 

Who Can Donate?

 

If you meet these basic requirements, you can become a lifesaver:

 

  • Aged 17 to 60
  • Weigh at least 50kg
  • In good general health
  • Haven’t donated in the last 3 months (men) or 4 months (women)

 

The donation process is safe, takes less than an hour, and includes refreshments afterward.

 

 

How to Donate Blood in Fiji

 

Donate at your nearest hospital, the Fiji National Blood Service, or at mobile blood drives. To become a registered blood donor with Fiji Red Cross Society, click here to register.

 

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