Who is Hussain has today launched its ambitious #GlobalBloodHeroes campaign, aiming to break the world record for the most blood donations in one calendar day. Coinciding with World Blood Donation Day, our campaign launch invites members of the public worldwide to register to donate blood this August.
On Saturday 27 August, we will strive to save 150,000 lives around the world, as people and communities rally together to donate across 60 locations and six continents.
We are calling on new donors to come forward and be one of 50,000 #GlobalBloodHeroes. Just one unit of blood can help to save three lives. The campaign hopes to help fulfil the increasing need for blood donations as countries worldwide are suffering a significant lack of supply.
The UK needs to recruit 400 new blood donors every day to save the lives of those who suffer blood loss through accidents, childbirth or have a medical condition such as haemophilia. In October the UK announced it sought 100,000 new donors to meet rising demand, the US is facing the worst blood shortage they’ve seen in a decade with the Red Cross declaring the first ever blood crisis and last week Australia saw stocks fall to just 2 day’s worth. The average in the UK is 6 days.
Muntazir Rai, Director of Who is Hussain said: “We know our goal to save 150,000 lives is ambitious, but we are confident there are thousands of Global Blood Heroes out there who are brave enough to step up to the challenge. Who is Hussain has achieved incredible feats in its short history, and during this difficult time, we felt it was important to help people find a way to support their communities and the world. I will be overcoming my fears to donate blood for the first time on 27 August. Join me!”
Altaf Kazi, Head of Partnerships and Community Engagement at NHS Blood and Transplant said “Thousands of lives are saved every year in England, thanks to the heroism of individuals willing to donate their blood – many who have overcome their own fears to do something truly life-changing. We’re proud to be partnering with Who is Hussain to help them reach their ambitious goal, to support those who depend on these life-changing donations. Donation is safe and only takes an hour of your time to save up to three lives. Sign up today and help to make history.”
Dr Sayyada Mawji, GP, aid worker and Head of Relief at Who is Hussain in London, said of the campaign: “We chose today, World Blood Donor Day, to launch this extraordinary campaign and inspire people around the world to join the Global Blood Heroes. There are a lot of misconceptions out there regarding blood donation. The truth is, it’s very safe, easy and is conducted by healthcare professionals, like me. With just one hour of your time donating blood, you can save up to three adult lives, or up to seven infant lives. Imagine the impact 50,000 donors could make on one day.”
Blood donation is a safe and regulated procedure conducted by healthcare professionals. To find out where you can donate on 27 August and how you can book online for the #GlobalBloodHeroes campaign, click here
