World Blood Donor Day in the United States

Date: World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on June 14th.

History: The event was established in 2004 by the World Health Organization (WHO), alongside the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, to raise awareness about the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood. The date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, the Nobel laureate who discovered the ABO blood group system.

Traditions: In the United States, World Blood Donor Day is marked by various events and activities organized by different groups including community organizations, blood donation centers, hospitals, and schools. These often include:

• Blood donation drives.
• Educational events to inform about the importance of blood donation.
• Recognition ceremonies for regular donors.
• Social media campaigns to encourage new donors.

What People Do: On World Blood Donor Day in the U.S., individuals are encouraged to:

• Donate blood or pledge to give blood at a time that is needed.
• Spread awareness about the importance of regular blood donation.
• Celebrate and thank those who donate their blood regularly.
• Educate themselves and others about their own blood type and compatibility.

These activities collectively aim to ensure a stable supply of safe blood for patients in need while promoting community engagement in this vital act of giving.