14 June 2021
Donating blood is a generous and altruistic act… and an individual one. World Blood Donor Day on June 14 is not about the act of giving blood, but rather about the donors themselves. They are the ones who make treatment and surgery possible for those who need it, when they need it. Without them, the outlook for injured people, hemophiliacs, or cancer patients who need blood products would be bleak. Whilst the phrase has certainly been used time and time again, it remains true: a blood donor is an everyday hero who saves lives.
Without the repeated efforts of donors, there would be no platelets, plasma or red blood cells to enable the sick and injured to be treated and healed. Given that blood product inventories have stayed low for several weeks, it is now more important than ever to thank those who donate, and to invite others to join the effort.
The commitment of blood donors has enabled the country to enter the year 2020 in very good conditions: the blood supply of the Luxembourg health system has been assured. Unfortunately, we cannot afford to take our eye of the ball: since February, hospital orders have increased by more than 20% and it is highly likely that this level will remain high for several months. In other words, whereas usually about 100 donations are needed every day, 120 donations are now required every day, from Monday to Friday. This increase in needs is linked to the fact that, in addition to the usual surgeries planned, we must add those that have been postponed for more than a year due to the pandemic.
If you have any questions about the day, the schedule or simply want to check certain eligibility criteria, people who have already given blood in Luxembourg can send an e-mail to don-du-sang@croix-rouge.lu or call 2755-4010.
More information on www.dondusang.lu.