Many people do not realise the many ways donated blood is used Anyone who has crossed paths with Safety Advisor Chris Jacobs will know his affinity for helping others.

From organising bad dress days to fundraise for childhood diabetes, to coordinating a regular blood donation roster among his workmates, Chris has long rallied support for community health initiatives.

But when his adult son, who was diagnosed with cancer, was told he needed blood transfusions to maintain his strength during chemotherapy, the issue became personal.

"It's often a personal connection to a cause that drives people to donate. For me, the impact we can have on other people's lives by lending a helping hand really hit home when my son was ill," says Chris.

"Blood transfusions gave him the boost he needed to carry on and it was great to know there was something tangible I could do to help him and others like him."

"Fortunately, he's since been given the all-clear from his oncologist and I'm thrilled to say he's on the mend."

Chris is one of several volunteer coordinators throughout Iron Ore who, from September to December, leads the company blood drive, booking appointments and arranging a free shuttle bus for anyone who wants to donate blood to the Red Cross.

Involvement as a donor is voluntary and takes approximately 1.5 hours for a first visit. Shuttle buses transport small groups to and from the Red Cross blood donor centres in Perth, one of twelve donor centres across the state. For more information on blood donation, or to find your nearest blood donor centre, visit the Red Cross website or call the Australian Red Cross Blood Service on 13 14 95.