Give generously to MDA
MAGEN David Adom (MDA) NSW president Roland Nagel is asking the community to continue the strong support it has shown in years past this Red Sunday.
MAGEN David Adom (MDA) NSW president Roland Nagel is asking the community to continue the strong support it has shown in years past this Red Sunday.
The goal for this year’s telethon is to raise enough funds for MDA Israel to purchase 12,000 blood filters to be used in saving lives all over Israel.
“There are some patients who are in a more sensitive situation, such as cancer patients, babies or people that have had blood transfusions in the past, but have had complications from them,” Nagel told The AJN.
“We’re looking at 12,000 filters, so potentially you could save 12,000 lives if they each just require one unit of blood.”
Nagel praised the “excellent” response MDA had received to the last two telethons and said, “We’re looking for the same this year.
“We’re very pleased with the support,” he said.
“One thing we really value is that a lot of our volunteers are students from the Jewish day schools and from the Zionist youth movements. Last year, many children came with their parents as well.
“I think the whole idea of getting the spirit of the community involved and teaching children all about tzedakah and community responsibility and supporting Israel, are all very worthwhile objectives.”
He said it was important, especially now in the wake of the terror attacks and stabbings that have plagued Israel since last September, to ensure MDA’s day-to-day activities in Israel remain strongly supported.
“They’ve had to respond to far more calls as a result of the stabbings, and [are] going out to all parts of Israel where there has been a need,” he said.
“Since September last year, MDA teams have provided medical lifesaving treatment to 318 victims [29 of whom died] … They have also assisted 105 people suffering from stress symptoms.
“That’s over and above the day-to-day needs that they’re doing, and of course when there is a stabbing, within seconds they respond.”
He urged members of the community to give generously this Sunday.
“Regardless of who the patient is, MDA is there for them,” he said.
“They’re really helping people carry on with their day-to-day lives, and that’s why it’s important to help MDA.”
GARETH NARUNSKY
Red Sunday is this Sunday, February 7. Online donations can be made at www.magendavidadom.org.au.
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