With commitment and tradition for a good cause: The Order of Saint Stanislaus not only supports charitable projects, but also life-saving blood donations.
Klagenfurt – A special event took place on Cathedral Square in Klagenfurt: the carinthian knights of the Order of Saint Stanislaus came together to donate blood and thus make an active contribution to saving lives. The campaign was organised by Imrana Jashari, a Dame of the Order and a blood donation service employee. ‘It’s great to see how associations and traditional organizations like the Order of Saint Stanislaus are finding their way to blood donation. Every single donation counts and is a valuable contribution,’ says Jashari.
‘Donations are an act of solidarity’
Dr Martha Unterlercher, who accompanied the campaign as an expert for the blood donation service, emphasises the importance of blood donations: ‘Blood donations are an act of solidarity and charity. They make it possible to help people in medical emergencies and save lives. Every blood donation is a sign of solidarity and compassion.’
The chivalrous virtues of helping and protecting
Deputy Prior of the order, John Patrick Platzer, sees the blood donation campaign as an expression of chivalrous virtues: ‘For us knights, it is a matter of course to be there for others and to save lives. Chivalry also means taking responsibility for the community and helping where help is needed. With a blood donation, we can support people in need in a simple but effective way – a deeply chivalrous act.’
Blood donations save lives
In principle, anyone between the ages of 18 and 70 who feels healthy and fit can donate blood. Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, the chronically ill and those who have an infection or cold sore are excluded. Whether it’s after an accident, birth or for patients with a serious illness – in Austria a blood bag is needed every 90 seconds. The blood donation includes around 465 ml of whole blood, which is separated into different components and, after testing, delivered to Austria’s hospitals – where it saves lives. For more information, please visit: www.blut.at