World Blood Donor Day 2024 Photo: Shutterstock
Blood donation is a noble act, and millions of needy patients around the world benefit from such donations every month, receiving treatment for various medical conditions such as blood loss, anemia and cancer.
People donate blood to blood banks or organizations that collect it for transfusions, ensuring a steady supply of healthy blood, which is crucial for healthcare. World Blood Donor Day is celebrated on June 14 every year, highlighting the importance of blood donation and encouraging more people to become donors. As the world celebrates World Blood Donor Day 2024 today, June 14, here are some things to know about it.
World Blood Donor Day 2024: history
Richard Lower, a scientist, performed a blood transfusion between two dogs in 1940 without any ill effects. That was the breakthrough moment in healthcare that made possible the development of blood transfusion techniques and made blood donation and transfusion a regular procedure. In 2005, the World Health Assembly announced to celebrate World Blood Donor Day on June 24 every year and the day has been celebrated every year since then.
World Blood Donor Day 2024: Meaning
Every year, the world celebrates World Blood Donor Day to raise awareness about the importance of donating blood and supporting communities. It encourages people to donate blood to maintain the supply of healthy blood for the healthcare sector. It is also a great opportunity to thank blood donors around the world for donating blood and saving lives over the years, and to honor the profound impact on both patients and donors. It is also an opportune time to address ongoing challenges and accelerate progress toward a future where safe blood transfusions are accessible around the world.
What is the theme of World Blood Donor Day 2024?
The theme for World Blood Donor Day 2024 is: “Celebrating 20 years of giving: thank blood donors!”
The theme highlights two important aspects. First, it is an opportunity to express gratitude for those who voluntarily choose to donate blood. Their selfless act of blood donation saves countless lives and remains the backbone of a safe blood supply.
Secondly, this year also marks 20 years of spreading awareness and promoting blood donation. This is also an opportunity to reflect on progress made, acknowledge challenges and celebrate the dedication of blood donors, blood centers and organizations working tirelessly in the field.
World Blood Donor Day 2024: Quotes
- “Donate blood, save lives. Be a hero in someone’s story today.”
- “One pint can save three lives, a single gesture can bring a million smiles.”
- “Your blood donation is a gift straight from the heart.”
- “Every drop counts. Donate blood and be the reason for someone’s heartbeat.”
- “The gift of blood is the gift of life. Share that precious gift today.”
- “Be there for someone else. Donate blood and keep the world going.”
- “Donate blood today and make tomorrow’s hope possible.”
- “Life is in the blood. Donate today and let life flow.”
- “Your blood donation is the lifeline that keeps communities strong.”
- “Together we can make a difference, one donation at a time.”
First print: June 14, 2024 | 12:38 pm IST