Laura Dundovic opens up about huge misconception surrounding chronic illness
Former Miss Universe Australia Laura Dundovic is urging those with haemochromatosis to help her save lives.
Dundovic was diagnosed with the disease – a genetic condition that causes the body to store too much iron – when she was 16.
Those living with the condition are required to give blood as part of their treatment, and Dundovic is now urging others like her to use that as an opportunity to help save lives.
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Laura Dundovic has opened up about how her chronic illness helps her save the lives of others. Instagram: Laura Dundovic
New research shows 73,000 bags of blood taken from people with iron disorders at pathology centres are discarded every year.
So, Dundovic is asking those living with haemochromatosis and other similar conditions to consider donating blood at an Australian Red Cross lifeblood donor centre.
"I think the main reason why people with haemochromatosis don't donate their blood is miseducation," she said.
"Lots of people are told their blood isn't useable when in fact it is.
"Donating blood saves my life… and it's an easy way to give back that your body will thank you for."
Dr. Peter Bentley, a researcher for the Australian Red Cross, backed up Dundovic's claims, reassuring those living with haemochromatosis that their blood is usable if donated.
"Unlike many other chronic health problems, this condition has had a positive spin-off for others, and people with the condition have the potential to contribute greatly to the blood supply as they often need to give blood frequently," he shared.
"People with haemochromatosis make up 2.5 per cent of the Australian blood donor panel, with 15,000 donors already making 37,000 donations every year at Lifeblood donor centres."
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Typically, the primary treatment for haemochromatosis is blood removal, a procedure usually done around every 12 weeks.
Dundovic explains that each time she donates blood, she has the potential to save up to three other lives.
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