World Blood Donor Day is an event officially designated by the World Health Assembly that is celebrated annually by the global community. On this day, we recognize and thank the millions of people around the world who donate their blood on a voluntary, altruistic basis to improve the health and sometimes even save the lives of others. The day will encourage more people to become voluntary blood donors and will underline the importance of regular donations to prevent blood shortages. It will also demonstrate a renewed commitment by policy makers and health professionals to work towards making safe blood transfusion available for all patients who require it as part of their treatment.