'Even chickens give blood'Tuesday evening marked the 60th BRONZ Auckland blood run and 20 motorcyclists turned out to make a sanguine sacrifice. Whitney of the Auckland Scooter and Motorcycle Club was crowned fastest donator, pumping out 470ml in just under 4 minutes 30 seconds. The Auckland University Scooter and Motorcycle Club’s rubber chicken also made another appearance and was most popular amongst donators and staff alike. The message that ‘even chickens give blood’ was greatly appreciated by the more nervous riders and the plastic chook was directly responsible for at least one revisit after making its debut in April.
So, what does giving blood have to with motorcycling? Motorcyclists are known for their generosity and keenness to help others: think Pink Ribbon Ride, Westpac Helicopter Ride and countless other charity runs. Giving blood is another way to help the community. For many it is also a way to bank ‘karma points’ because accidents happen and you never know when a 4WD might run a red light or when you might need the red stuff yourself.
First time donor Ruth Nielsen with the chicken mascotThe blood centre staff were rather surprised by the demographic this time around and new recruit Ruth Nielsen caused double takes when she removed her helmet. Having gained her motorcycle licence last year, Ruth has attended the majority of Auckland based charity rides since. She wanted to give blood ‘since it is such a simple thing to do which saves so many people’. There were several motivations for coming with the BRONZ group. First, the social element helps to alleviate the fear. Secondly, being around bikes has made her more aware of the constant need for blood: ‘unfortunately no matter how safely they ride motorcyclists are often in accidents which require blood transfusions’. Then there was the lure of ‘the pretty badge’, a special edition white blood drop on a red background to commemorate the 60th Blood Run.
The next BRONZ Auckland blood run will be in April 2012, but for anyone thinking of donating, now is the time to take the plunge! If the chicken can do it, you can too….
