Be the type that makes a difference – IBTS launches Blood for Life Week 2008

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service today (Thursday) announced details of activities for Blood for Life Week 2008 which runs from Sunday 14th September to Sunday 21st September.  The aim of Blood for Life Week is to increase public awareness about the importance of giving blood and encourage people to become regular blood donors.

“You never know when you, a relative or a friend will be depending on the commitment of donors”, said Andrew Kelly, Chief Executive of the IBTS.

“Be the type that makes a difference is the theme for this year’s Blood for Life Week. The type of person that makes a difference is someone who makes the effort and knows it will be time well spent.  We need 3,000 donations a week every week to ensure that patients who need a life saving blood transfusion get it. In order to do this, we need existing donors to give blood regularly, and we need new donors to replace those who are no longer able to give blood.” 

An awards ceremony for 50 and one hundred time donors will be held in Corkon Sunday 14th September.  IBTS media partners Today FM will host Tony Fenton’s show in the Blood mobile at St Stephen’s Green on Monday 15th September to mark its 1st birthday.  Other media and corporate partners include Vodafone Ireland, TV3, Volunteer Centres Ireland and 11890 Directory Enquiries.

The IBTS will also launch ‘giveblood.ie’ the new IBTS website.  “The new site has adopted an innovative and user friendly approach to the delivery of blood donor clinic information.  There is also additional interactivity available to site visitors through the give blood eligibility quiz.  The ‘tell your story’ section gives donors and recipients an opportunity to share their experiences,” said Mr Kelly.

ENDS

For further information contact: Mirenda O’Donovan at 087 2078127

Note to editors:

  • 3,000 blood donations are needed every week
  • 45,000 blood donations are needed between now and Christmas
  • 70% of donors give blood for the first time with a family member, friend or neighbour
  • More 24 year olds give blood than any other age group
  • The 46 year old is the most frequent donor
  • Blood lasts just 35 days
  • 47% of the Irish population are O positive

 

Text 53377 to receive a pledge pack

For clinic information call 1850 731 137 or visit www.giveblood.ie