Giving blood is a great way to help the most vulnerable people. People who donate blood give life to others. It is only apt that they are called ‘donor’ which means “to give” in Latin.

Every year, World Donor Day is celebrated on June 14.

The date honors Karl Landsteiner — the scientist who first discovered blood groups.

Traditionally, on this day, volunteers are encouraged to donate blood to save people in need of donated blood.

Blood donation activates the hematopoietic system and stimulates immunity. Therefore, people donating their blood for the benefit of others receive additional years of active life. How?

When you donate blood, your body replaces the blood volume within 48 hours of donation, and all the red blood cells you lose during donation are completely replaced within four to eight weeks. This process of replenishment can help your body stay healthy and work more efficiently and productively.

Blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person – the gift of life.

A decision to donate your blood can save a life or even several lives! Do you know how?

If your donated blood is separated into its components – red cells, platelets and plasma – that can be used individually for patients with specific conditions. Red blood cells, which replace blood loss in patients during surgery or trauma; platelets, which are often used to control or prevent bleeding in surgery and trauma patients; and plasma, which helps stop bleeding and can be used to treat severe burns. Thus, one donation saves three lives!

There is a constant need for a regular supply of blood because it can be stored only for a limited period before use. Regular blood donation by healthy people is needed to ensure that blood will always be available whenever and wherever it is needed.

Did you know?

*According to the WHO, 33% of donors are women!

*Donated red blood cells can be stored for 42 days, donated platelets can be stored for 5 days, and donated plasma can be stored for one year.

*You may donate whole blood every 56 days, platelets every 7 days and plasma every 28 days.

*Blood cannot be made synthetically and there is no substitute for it.

*One teaspoon of blood can save a baby’s life!

*Giving blood is safe as the needle and blood bag used to collect blood come in a sterile pack that cannot be reused. The process is made as safe as possible.

BLOOD DONORS ARE LIFE SAVERS!