There was a total of 126 donors who gave blood at the most recent edition of the transfusion session that was held last Saturday in Pilar de la Horadada in addition to which 15 people signed up to become marrow donors.
The President of the Greater Board of Brotherhoods, Mari Carmen Villaescusa and the Alicante Blood Transfusion Centre, said that they have been organising such events in Pilar for more than a decade but she added that the organisation was particularly pleased with the numbers who agreed to provide marrow.
The Department of Health highlighted the importance of finding new donors, as well as the loyalty of those who give blood on a regular basis. The Blood Transfusion Centre of Alicante said that 250 units of blood are needed every day in the province of Alicante.
Unfortunately, in the case of expats, anyone who has lived continuously in the UK between 1980 and 1996 for a minimum of one may not donate blood in Spain due to the risk of transmitting mad cow disease. However, each region has different rules about donations. The donation helpline can be found on 935 573 500. Alternatively, visit www.donorsang.gencat.cat to find out if you are eligible.
