Today is World Blood Donor Day, a chance to recognize the millions of donors who save lives every day.
More than 80 million units of blood are donated annually, according to the World Health Organization, but more is needed.
This event is held every year on 14 June to raise awareness of the need for blood and blood donors.
The theme for this year’s event is Celebrating Your Gift of Blood, and will highlight people whose lives have been changed or, possibly, saved by a blood donation.
In 2004, 551 people in Grand Cayman registered as blood donors and an additional 100 or so have signed on this year.
The blood bank would like to see another 500 donors come forward, however. It is also hoped that more young people get involved in this community service.
Giving blood always seems to be something that people talk about getting around to doing, but never quite get there.
Two decades ago, the excuse would have been concern about AIDS-tainted blood, along with the usual reasons of not enough time, fear of needles and a host of other rationales.
Can anyone really claim that they are too busy to give up 45 minutes, one day, once every three months to take part in a potentially life-saving exercise?
If you or a person you love needed blood, you would certainly want to know that the blood bank had an adequate supply. So it shouldn’t matter if it is someone else’s mother or son or grandchild who needs help.
Living through and after Ivan taught people here a lot about pulling together and helping each other. The community needs you and you need the community.
Give blood today and become a regular donor. Someone’s life may depend on it: It could be yours.
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