Brave Bella Encourages Blood Donationsby Joanna JonesBella Harry was looking forward to starting high school at St John’s College Nambour this year, before her dream was shattered after being diagnosed with Bone Cancer in January 2015.Since then Bella has undergone extensive treatment including operations, blood transfusions, and chemotherapy at Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital in Brisbane, and is currently approximately half way through a 15 week chemotherapy program after her femur replacement in May.Prior to diagnosis Bella was an active, healthy school girl involved in surf life saving, district netball, cross country and was Sports Captain at St Joseph’s Primary school...a sore knee was her only symptom.Bella and her family – parents Emma and Shae, and brothers Angus and Lewis, have been through an extraordinary emotional journey since the diagnosis; buoyed by Bella’s spirit and strength, as well as overwhelming support from the Sunshine Coast community.Emma Harry says they have learnt so much through this process, and are so grateful for the wonderful care provided by Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital and also the love and support from the local community, including donations which have enabled Emma to take time off work and be with Bella.During Bella’s time in hospital she has had to undergo several blood transfusions; and it has reinforced to Bella and her family the critical importance of a healthy supply of blood to be available for those who need it – which in fact, is one in every three Australians at some point in our lives.“Having that blood available is life saving,” said Emma.  “Without it Bella wouldn’t survive; although Bella has a common blood type, supply is always not as high as the Blood Bank would like, and donations need to be ongoing.”“Not everyone is as fortunate, for those with rare blood types, the situation can be critical.”“Bella’s experience has really caused her friends to think about the importance of blood donation, and although her friends are too young yet to donate; they have encouraged their older siblings to do so.”27,000 Australians need blood donations every week.  Donations drop in winter, but the need is still as strong as any other season.Spokesperson for Australian Red Cross Blood Bank Shaun Inguanzo encourages everyone that can, to roll up their sleeves.“One in three of us will need donated blood in our lifetime, and the only way to ensure that it will be there when we need it is to give it,” he said.“Australia relies on around 500,000 donors, so we know that there are many more people who could possibly give blood but currently don’t.“We’re urging people who are aged between 16 and 70, feel fit and healthy, and who want to help save lives, to make an appointment to give blood...it could save your life or the life of a loved one; you can make a difference.”For those wanting to follow Bella’s progress on facebook: Benefit4Bella or on instagram @stylekickingcancer.  To donate blood call 13 14 95 to find out your nearest fixed or mobile centre or visit donateblood.com.au.Caption: Front pageLast Tuesday Bella got a special visit from Hollywood movie star Johnny Depp aka Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean.  Johnny spent 15 minutes chatting with Bella, who has been a fan of his since she saw Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Photo Courtesy of Juiced TV.