BRENDAN LINES
THE family of Riverland and Port Adelaide football legend Russell Ebert is calling on Riverlanders to visit Lifeblood Donor Centre’s mobile blood unit from March 15 to 18.
Ebert, originally from Berri, was recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, meaning he is no longer eligible to donate blood.
Before his diagnosis, Ebert regularly donated blood vital for those in need.
Ebert’s daughter Tammie Kernich, of Loxton, said donating will help people in need of blood products for treatments similar to her father’s.
“This is an opportunity for us to highlight the mobile blood donation van coming up to the Riverland,” she said.
“And be able to help Dad like he’s helped a lot of people.
“Dad grew up and spent a lot of his time here for school and playing football. And a number of his family members are still living up here.
“Lifeblood needs 31,000 blood donations a week to support all the people across Australia with all sorts of illnesses and diseases.”
The Ebert name and Port Adelaide has come together once again to support the cause through Brett and Brad Ebert’s recent donations.
Port Adelaide’s CEO Matthew Richardson said the football club was proud to throw its support behind the Team Russell effort.
“When the Ebert family reached out to us with the idea to set up Team Russell we knew immediately it was something we wanted to support as a club and community,” he said.
“In typical Russell fashion, no matter the circumstances, his mind goes immediately to how he can help others.
“So, while he focuses on attacking his treatment with his typical determination we encourage all our members and supporters to take up the baton and donate blood on Russell’s behalf.”
Lifeblood will be at the Berri Town Hall Monday, March 15 and 16.
Then, in Renmark at the Greek Orthodox Hall on Twenty-first Street on March 17 to 18.
For blood donation appointments call: 13 14 95 or visit: lifeblood.com.au.