In an emergency, following an accident or due to a disease a blood transfusion can make all the difference and save a life. There is always a constant need for blood donors, and becoming one is a relatively easy and pain free process.
Donating blood takes only little of your time (up to 1 hour including the screening and having a rest after the donation) and can save up to 3 lives.
When you decide to donate blood, you will be asked some questions related to your health to ensure that you are eligible to donate. You will then take a seat and give blood (it takes usually between 5 to 10 minutes). A new sterile needle will be used, and you will feel only a slight sting on your arm. After the donation, you will most likely be offered a drink and a place to rest for a while. It is recommended to eat meals rich in iron and sleep well before and after the donation.
Giving the simplicity of the process a lot of people choose to give blood regularly (with an interval between each donation) making this way an even bigger impact. However, no matter the amount of blood donors there will always be a demand. That is why we should all do our part. Wherever it is through becoming a regular donor, a one-time donation or spreading the word – everyone can help!
Below you can find a list of places by country where you can donate, or register to become a donor:
Greece: EKEA – National Center for Blood Donation
Italy: Dona Il Sangue
Denmark: Bloddonorerne Danmark – Borger.dk
United Kingdom: NHS
If you are located anywhere else in the world, you can contact your local public health authorities or visit your country’s Ministry of Health website or your state’s official website.
