site.btaSofia's Military Medical Academy Transfusion Centre Marks Anniversary with Record 8,000 Blood Donors

The Transfusion Hematology Centre of Sofia's Military Medical Academy (MMA) marked its anniversary on Tuesday with a record number of blood donors, the MMA press office said.

Nearly 8,000 people donated blood over the past 12 months, the highest number in the Centre’s history. In previous years, the number of donors ranged between 6,000 and 7,000. The increase this year is a clear sign of sustainable development and growing public trust in the Centre’s work, the MMA said.

“I would like to thank all donors – they are true heroes. The contribution of military personnel and civilian employees from military units is also invaluable, as they account for nearly half of all blood donors,” said Prof. Rumen Popov, head of the Transfusion Hematology Centre at the MMA.

According to Prof. Popov, MMA mobile teams play an increasingly important role in boosting donor numbers by visiting various organisations and institutions and enabling more people to take part in the “Be One of Us: Donate Blood – Save a Life” initiative.

Prof. Popov also expressed special thanks to the Centre’s staff for their dedication and continuous work, including during the holidays. “Our colleagues are available on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day to ensure sufficient supplies of blood and blood products and to welcome all those willing to donate,” he said.

On the eve of the holidays, Prof. Popov wished health and festive days to the MMA team and all blood donors, adding that the Blood Centre’s anniversary is seen as a celebration of solidarity, responsibility and humanity.

Last year, the Transfusion Hematology Centre reported 1,000 more blood donations compared to 2023.