World Blood Donor Day is celebrated on June 14th to thank blood donors and raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products.
History
Since 2005 World Blood Donor Day has been celebrated internationally on 14th June, on the anniversary of the birthday of Karl Landsteiner.
In 1930 the Austrian biologist, physician and immunologist won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine after he distinguished the ABO blood group system. He is recognised as the father of transfusion medicine.
World Blood Donor Day 2023
This year the slogan for WBDD is "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often", with a focus on patients requiring long-life transfusion support.
It's a bloody good idea to donate - here's why
For you
Donating blood is one of the best ways to help others in need. This positive action for others can have positive impacts on you too, including:
- A sense of belonging
- Increased self-esteem
- Reduced stress
- Improved emotional wellbeing
For others
By donating blood you will literally be helping to save lives. According to Give Blood, they need:
- 135,000 new donors a year to replace those who can no longer donate
- 30,000 new donors with priority blood types such as O negative every year
- More young people to start giving blood so that there is enough blood in the future
Where to donate
Visit Welsh Blood for information on where you can donate blood. Give Blood has a useful post on what to expect when giving blood for the first time.