On 23 November 2022, the Institute of Entrepreneurship Development – iED organized a voluntary blood donation at the JOIST Innovation Park. The staff of iED and JOIST participated in the blood drive to strengthen the Blood Donation Unit of the General Hospital of Larissa.
Blood donation is an urgent need in Greece as there is not enough blood to cover the needs of the Greek healthcare system. As a result, Greece is forced to import blood from other countries like Switzerland, which have blood units in excess.
Some Facts About Blood Donation in Greece
According to a study made a few years back, only 10% of Greeks declared themselves active blood donors, which is very low. At the same time, 31% reported being occasional donors, 15% rare donors, and 36% rare donors.
Additionally, what was interesting in the study was that 78% said that need is the fundamental positive motivation for donating blood. This hint is significant as it can be used in advertising campaigns to increase Greeks’ participation in blood drives or change their mindset on being active blood donors.
Blood Is Life
Donating our blood is only a mild discomfort but a massive relief for those in need. That’s why we should make giving blood a habit and become regular blood donors. We can donate blood every three months, so in total, a maximum of four times each year.
We must not let fear dictate our life. Donating blood is an act of solidarity and a life-giving act.
A big thank you to the medical and nursing staff of Larissa’s General Hospital, who visited our premises and made this blood donation possible.
For information on blood donations in Greece, visit the National Blood Donation Centre.
