It was a positive drive on Friday the 13th of June for Bank of Valletta when more than thirty eight BOV employees paid it forward in a bid to donate blood for life-threatening circumstances.

“This has become a ritual occurrence and an event that is awaited by many of our employees.” said Kenneth Micallef, Head CEO’s Office at Bank of Valletta. “Conveniently located just outside Bank of Valletta’s Head Office in Sta Venera, the blood mobile unit makes it easy for both our staff and passers-by to donate their blood whilst collaborating with the Bank in its mission to support the well-being of our local community”, added Mr Micallef whilst thanking the staff of the National Blood Transfusion Unit for making this blood donation day possible through their efforts and dedication.

This blood donation drive ties in with World Blood Donor day which happens on the 14th of June 2014.  This year’s campaign with the slogan: donate blood for those who give life promote awareness about why timely access to safe blood and blood products is essential for all countries as part of a comprehensive approach to prevent maternal deaths. Statistics also indicate that in low-income countries, up to 65% of blood transfusions are given to children under five years of age.

Local statistics indicate that an estimate of 50 bags per day are required to carry out a number of operations – the equivalent of more than 18,000 bags of blood in one year are needed. Bearing in mind deferrals, which are the people who show up to donate blood but for a various reasons blood is not donated, one has to allow for a margin of 25%. This means that to collect 50 bags, an average of 63 people need to visit the National Blood Transfusion Unit.