Today marks four years since the launch of the ‘Blood, Sweat and Cheers’ campaign between the Welsh Blood Service and the Football Association of Wales.
The campaign, which harnesses the support of clubs across the Genero Adran Leagues, as well as the JD Cymru Leagues, has been transformative in its impact with over 3,100 lives potentially saved as a result.
Over the last three years, clubs across Wales have been encouraging fans to support the campaign both on and off the pitch to highlight the importance of donating blood, platelets and bone marrow.
You can find your nearest donation session by clicking here, with Cardiff City manager Iain Darbyshire becoming a blood donor by attending a session at the Cardiff City Stadium
“We host many blood giving sessions at the Stadium which encourages staff to donate blood,” Darbyshire says. “That is what made me first decide to donate blood. You know that you are helping someone who is in need. You may never meet this person, but you know that your donation is for such a good cause.”
350 blood donations are needed daily to supply 20 hospitals in Wales with enough blood to support lifesaving procedures for patients, including those involved in accidents, organ transplants, pregnancy and certain types of cancer such as leukaemia.
Giving blood is quick, simple and entirely safe and it is easy to check your eligibility and book an appointment.
“Your donation can help to save somebody’s life,” Darbyshire says. “It is so rewarding once you have given a donation as you feel that you make a difference. I would encourage anyone to book an appointment at your nearest donation clinic.”
Find out more about signing up to donate blood by visiting: wbs.wales/football
