International Plasma Awareness Week (5-9 October 2026)

To book your donation, visit www.lifeblood.com.au/IPAW

Every day, thousands of Australians rely on life-changing treatments made possible by something that cannot be manufactured in a laboratory: human plasma.

This International Plasma Awareness Week (5-9 October), Michael was joined by fellow Olympic champions Cathy Freeman, Ian Thorpe, Cate Campbell and Cooper Woods in launching Lifeblood Australia's Go for gold, give Plasma campaign.

What Is Plasma?

Plasma is the liquid component of blood, making up around 55% of its volume. It contains proteins, antibodies and other vital substances that help the body fight infection, clot blood and perform important immune functions.

Unlike whole blood donations, plasma can be collected through a process called plasmapheresis, which separates the plasma and returns the remaining blood components to the donor. The donated plasma is then used to manufacture a range of therapies that support people living with immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, neurological conditions and autoimmune diseases.

Plasma is the most-needed type of blood donation in Australia, with demand at record levels given a new donation is needed every 33 seconds.

Why Plasma Matters to the CIDP Community

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of the nerves.

For many people living with CIDP, immunoglobulin therapy, which is made from donated plasma, can be a critical treatment that helps manage symptoms, reduce disease progression and improve daily functioning.

Without the generosity of plasma donors, many individuals with CIDP would face significant challenges accessing treatments that allow them to work, care for their families, participate in their communities and maintain their independence.

  *   Learn more about plasma donation and the conditions it supports.

  *   Share information about CIDP and other plasma-dependent conditions.

  *   Thank plasma donors for their life-changing contributions.

How You Can Help

This International Plasma Awareness Week, we encourage our community to:

  *   Consider becoming a plasma donor if you are eligible: www.lifeblood.com.au/IPAW

  *   Help raise awareness by sharing patient stories and educational resources.

Together We Can Make a Difference

At the Klim Foundation, we believe awareness creates understanding, understanding drives action, and action changes lives.

As we recognise International Plasma Awareness Week, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every plasma donor, healthcare professional, researcher and advocate working to support people living with CIDP and other neurological and immune-mediated conditions.