Blood donation: 75 bags collected for the campaign organized in Bagnols-sur-Cèze

Occitanie has 6,900 blood bags, the equivalent of 12 days of stock. A. J. – Midi Libre

The mobilization of the Bagnolais made it possible to increase the always low stocks of the French blood establishment on Monday, August 19. The figures are encouraging for the summer period.

“It saves lives, we can all need it” recalls Zoé, a member for 7 years for the association of voluntary blood donors. On August 19, 2024, the French Blood Establishment (EFS) took up residence at the Léo Lagrange complex in Bagnols.

All afternoon, donors line up to fill blood bags, after an interview with Vanessa Vasseur, EFS doctor: “You can give blood every 2 months, from the age of 18, and up to the age of 71. The interview allows potential risks to be detected, and to protect donors and recipients. This donation helps people with cancer, especially during chemotherapy."

A gesture of solidarity

Many regulars come back regularly to give blood. Like Loane, a pharmacy student who is "very aware" of the importance of donation. Or Élisabeth, who gives blood once or twice a year: “I don't like injections, but I know it's a good deed.”

Patrick comes back as soon as he can: “It's a simple gesture that saves lives.” We find him after his blood test, in great shape: “I had eaten well in anticipation” he laughs as he wolfs down his snack.

16,000 bags still missing

Eighty-five people showed up. Ten couldn't donate, due to health reasons. Seventy-five donations, for Audrey Marron, from the EFS, is a very good figure: “Generally we are around sixty donations in Bagnols-sur-Cèze during this summer period, there was a great turnout.”

Currently, Occitanie has 6,900 blood bags. The equivalent of twelve days of stock. A figure still below the needs. At the national level, 100,000 bags are needed. Currently, the country has only 84,000. Every donation is important.

The next blood donation campaign is scheduled for September 4 at the Connaux community center, and October 21 in Bagnols. For more information: 0 800 97 21 00 or dondesang.efs.sante.fr.