World Blood Donor Day 2015

The World Health Organization (WHO) has long found that the safest blood supplies come from voluntary, unpaid donors. While patients in the United States can count on lifesaving donations from a strong volunteer donor base, patients in 40 countries around the world still rely entirely on family members or paid donors to provide them with the blood they need. The WHO hopes to encourage voluntary donation worldwide this Sunday, June 14 and to move each nation a step closer to an entirely volunteer donor base, something they hope to achieve in every country by 2020.

June 14 has been known as World Blood Donor Day since 2004. The date was selected in honor of biologist Karl Landsteiner, born on June 14, 1858, whose discovery of ABO blood groups and pioneering research into the Rhesus factor would eventually make him one of the most important figures in the history of blood transfusion. His birthday his now an opportunity to honor those who selflessly share the gift of life and to call attention to the need for more voluntary donors worldwide.

For this year’s event, patients worldwide will come together to thank the donors who saved their lives. Local patients who would like to show their gratitude can share their stories with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or on our website. We’ll also mark the holiday with a special World Blood Donor Day bandage from Nexcare Bandages for all donors who visit us June 8-13.

Thank you to all of the local donors who choose to give freely and often. We look forward to honoring each of you this Sunday.