One month ago, I walked off the TEDxBrisbane stage after sharing an idea I deeply believe in: that blood donation is one of the last remaining acts of true altruism in an age increasingly shaped by the attention economy.
Today, I’m reflecting on what has happened in the 30 days since.
In that time, members of the Milkshakes for Marleigh Lifeblood Team have made:
🩸 9 Whole Blood donations
🩸 38 Plasma donations
🩸 1 Platelet donation
Together, those donations have the potential to save at least 148 lives.
One hundred and forty-eight lives.
Not because of me. Not because of a TEDx stage. But because people heard an idea, connected with it, and chose to take action.
That is why I believe so strongly that #IdeasChangeEverything.
What makes this impact even more remarkable is the timing. Australia is currently experiencing critical blood shortages, driven by a significant virus season that has reduced donor attendance while demand for blood and blood products remains constant. Every single donation made over the past month has mattered.
I’ve long argued that awareness is only valuable if it leads to action. The past 30 days have reinforced that belief. When we create opportunities for people to hear stories, connect with a cause, and understand the tangible difference they can make, real change follows.
The true measure of a TEDx talk isn’t the applause in the room. It’s what happens after people leave.
In the month since TEDxBrisbane, the Milkshakes for Marleigh community has helped save at least 148 lives.
To everyone who booked a donation, rolled up their sleeve, joined the Milkshakes for Marleigh Lifeblood Team, or encouraged someone else to donate: thank you.
Because one month on, this idea is no longer just a talk. It’s action. It’s community.
It’s 148 Australians who are more likely to receive the blood products they need when they need them most. And if we keep donating at this rate, the Milkshakes for Marleigh Lifeblood Team will save close to 2000 Australian lives in the next 12 months.
And that’s why I will always believe that #IdeasChangeEverything.
Will you join us?
Learn more here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/one-month-since-tedxbrisbane-reflection-power-ideas-kate-fisher-2puhc/
#TEDxBrisbane #IdeasChangeEverything #MilkshakesForMarleigh #BloodDonation #Lifeblood #SocialImpact #Leadership #Mateship #Community #ActionWithoutApplause #PublicHealth #AustralianRedCrossLifeblood