Tomorrow marks the 11^th annual World Blood Donor Day, a very important date in the healthcare calendar because the act of giving blood literally means giving the gift of life. In fact, just a single unit of blood can save up to three people’s lives.

This year’s theme, spearheaded by the World Health Organisation, is “Safe blood for saving mothers”, to help gain awareness to the needs of mothers who may experience complications during childbirth, requiring a blood donation.

World Blood Donor Day brings together countries from all around the world to celebrate this life-giving gift. As your Health Minister, I would like to thank each and every Cayman resident who selflessly gives blood. Your act of thoughtfulness for others is truly appreciated.

We would also like to encourage others to give blood as the supply at the national Blood Bank in Cayman Islands Hospital is currently in need of all blood types. In addition, it is important for as many people as possible to join our regular blood donors list so that you can be contacted if your blood type is needed.

Please stop by the Cayman Islands Hospital Atrium to sign up as a blood donor from 9am – 5pm tomorrow Saturday June 14^th. Those who are able to donate blood can attend the Blood Bank during this time to give blood, located on the second floor of the Cayman Islands Hospital, across from the Paediatric Ward.

If you cannot donate tomorrow, please make an appointment for another day, as the demand for blood is always needed.

Giving blood is a selfless act that you can do to help increase our blood supplies and help a patient who may require the gift of life.

Thank you.