Libourne Residents Called Upon to Share the Gift of Life This Holiday Season
Every drop counts, especially during the holiday season. That’s the message from the Libournais Voluntary Blood Donation Association and the French Blood Establishment (EFS) as they gear up for their next blood drive on December 13th.
“For me, it’s like voting, it’s a duty. Even if I am not as diligent as I would like…,” says Michel, a dedicated donor. Several moves, a hectic schedule, and some health issues haven’t deterred him from responding to the calls for blood donations whenever he can.
Jacky Desvignes, president of the Volunteer Blood Donation Association, acknowledges the various profiles of blood donors. “I know some who gave with the regularity of clockwork from their military service until they were 70 years old. Others come from time to time. There are those who feel apprehensive, those who accompany a relative or a friend.”
Some potential donors are disappointed because they can’t give immediately, due to low blood pressure, recent dental work, or even a tattoo. Recognizing this, volunteer Vincent Dugos offers his time instead. “I couldn’t donate blood. I decided to give my time.”
The association orchestrates six collections annually, a limit set by regulations that mandate a 56-day interval between donations. The Charruauds room, generously provided by the municipality, serves as a welcoming space for the EFS team, which includes two doctors, a secretary, three nurses, and a specially trained driver.
“The fact of requiring appointments to be made greatly contributed to streamlining the collection,” explains a volunteer, highlighting the efficiency introduced post-Covid.
Donors enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and a snack break once their donation is complete.
“We mainly register around 100 to 150 new donors every year!” shares a team member proudly. They hope to reach their annual goal of 1,000 to 1,200 donations, ideally surpassing their previous high of over 1,300.
100 Spots Available on December 13
Those interested in making a life-saving contribution can visit the Salle des Charruauds on December 13th, between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., or from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments can be scheduled via dondesang.efs.sante.fr
Stay Mobilized Throughout the Holidays
While the Libourne team encourages local blood donations, they also remind the community that the need for plasma and platelets is equally important. These specialized donations can be made at the Maison du don, located at the Pellegrin hospital center in Bordeaux.
The holiday season often sees a decrease in donations, creating a challenging time to ensure adequate supplies. This year, let’s show our commitment to helping others by stepping up and donating blood, plasma, or platelets. Every contribution counts in making a difference and saving lives.
What advice would you give to someone who is temporarily ineligible to donate blood?
## The Gift of Life This Holiday Season in Libourne
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show. Today we’re talking about the upcoming blood drive in Libourne on December 13th, organized by the Libournais Voluntary Blood Donation Association and the French Blood Establishment. Jacky Desvignes, President of the Association, thank you for joining us.
**Jacky Desvignes:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** The holidays are a time of giving, and blood donation is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer. Can you tell us why it’s so important, especially at this time of year?
**Jacky Desvignes:** Absolutely. While the need for blood never truly goes away, demand often increases during the holidays. There’s more travel, more accidents, and sometimes even challenges related to seasonal illnesses. Every single drop counts, and it can make all the difference for someone in need.
**Interviewer:** Michel, a dedicated donor, mentioned feeling a sense of duty to donate. What motivates people to give blood?
**Jacky Desvignes:** I think there are lots of reasons. Some, like Michel, see it as a civic duty. For others, it’s a deeply personal connection to someone who’s needed blood, or a desire to help those in their community. We see amazing generosity and support from people of all walks of life.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned various profiles of donors. Some are incredibly regular, while others come less frequently.
**Jacky Desvignes:** Absolutely, and that’s perfectly fine. We appreciate every single donation, whatever the frequency. Just like Michel said, life can get busy, and we understand.
**Interviewer:** I’d like to touch on the fact that not everyone eligible to donate can do so right away. What message would you give to those who are turned away temporarily?
**Jacky Desvignes:** We know it can be disappointing when someone can’t donate at a particular time. But it’s important to remember the reason for these restrictions is to ensure the safety of both the donor and the recipient.
Please don’t be discouraged. We encourage you to come back at a later date, when you might be eligible. The most important thing is to stay informed about the requirements, ask questions if you’re unsure, and keep that spirit of giving alive.