MORE than 410 lives have so far been saved as a result of the generous donations of blood and plasma by people supporting a cause close to Port Adelaide legend Russell Ebert.

Ebert, who won a record four Magarey Medals and six club best and fairest awards during his incredible playing career, was a regular donor himself until he was diagnosed with Acute myeloid leukaemia late last year.

The South Australian football great has since been undergoing intensive treatment but remains in good spirits.

His family, including son Brett Ebert and nephew Brad Ebert – both former Port Adelaide players themselves – initiated a campaign on his behalf to challenge others to take Russell’s place at their local Red Cross Lifeblood Donor Centre and donate their blood and plasma for those in need.

In just over a month since the Ebert family launched its challenge, more than 130 people have signed on to be part of ‘Team Russell’ with 138 donations so far.

Most incredible is that those donations have come from four states across Australia.

While most of the donations have come from South Australia, generous donors in Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales have also contributed.

One in three Australians will need blood or blood products in their lifetime and one blood donation can save up to three lives. Donated plasma is used to make 18 different life-giving treatments.

It is not too late to donate. People who want to get involved can book in to donate blood or plasma at their local Red Cross Lifeblood Donor Centre across the state and tell staff they’re part of Team Russell to have their donation counted towards an overall tally keeping count of how many lives are saved.

Members and supporters can click here to register as a blood donor and join Team Russell.

If you are aged between 18-75 years and are feeling well click here to check your eligibility to donate blood or plasma.

To book time to donate please call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood app.