145 bags of blood donated yesterday
The Blood Bank has thanked donors for their generous response after its urgent appeal for blood yesterday.
It said that 145 bags of blood were donated. However since the bank needs a reserve of 300 bags of blood, if urged donors to continue coming forward.
The bank made its appeal yesterday when reserves sank following a spate of traffic accidents. Available stock of 'O' Positive blood had dwindled to just 20 bags.
At one time, there was a risk that operations scheduled for today would be called off. They have now gone ahead.
The bank explained that it uses about 50 bags of blood every day but demand spikes whenever there is a serious accident, and there are cases where individual patients need 25 bags of blood.
Blood donations are being received at the Blood Bank, near St Luke's Hospital, up to 6 p.m. Donors must produce their ID card.
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Mr Geoff Gibson
Oct 6th 2011, 15:27
I have been refused to be a doner because I've lived in England. The fact I have a donor card that proves I've donated over a dozen pints isn't enough for Malta. They still think I could have foot and mouth disease.
Enter the modern world Malta. Do you know how many ex-pats are living here and are being refused the chance to donate blood because you are SO behind the times?
Alison Calvert
Sep 5th 2011, 14:08
I would gladly donate blood, but every time i attept to i am rejected because i weigh less than 50KG. I have never weighed 50kg (except while pregnant), and probably wont for a good number of years to come.
Why cant they just accept my blood anyway? Perhaps take less if my weight might contribute to me feeling faint afterwards.... I am not scared of needles, and have had a number of operations. Would i not be the perfect candidate if only i weighed a few kg's more!
Mr Alfred Cassar
Sep 5th 2011, 20:07
Alison, I think that's a precaution, their first priority is the well being of the donor, so they reject your request to protect you from any possible health hazard even though it is extremely remote.
Mr Criss Camilleri
Sep 5th 2011, 13:32
My heart really 'bleeds' when I read such Blood requirements.I used to be a regular Donar until a few years ago, but was 'stopped' doing so because I have High Blood Presuure, which is controlled. Many years ago, this and diabetics did not stop me and others from donating blood. Some years ago I phoned the Blood Bank to ask again, but was again told that I am not able to donate due to the mentioned facts. I told the person answering that very shortly NO-ONE would be able to donate blood, as many Maltese suffered from H B P, , Diabetics etc. He informed me that these were intructions from the W.H.O. Finally, I ask those reading this, and CAN donate to do so, even when there is no request. I always use to bear in mind that person/s needing blood could be family, friends, or any other human for that matter.
Mr Paul Xuereb
Sep 5th 2011, 10:50
Definitely a solidarity gesture of the first order.
Ms Maria Vassallo
Sep 5th 2011, 10:32
Well done, donors!
This is another sign of the big heart of our citizens.
Thank you.