We knew that the youth of Nice was a source of wealth, but not to this extent. The city hosts numerous faculties which “represent the primary reservoir of donations,” according to Brigitte Pesle, head of collection in the department. The goal of the operation is to build loyalty among the youth. From high school to university, the paths may differ, but here, they “try to raise awareness among students and especially to build their loyalty.”
From Carlone to St Jean d’Angely via Montebello, the sought-after goal is the same: to provide enough blood bags for the department. It is important to note that “one out of every five blood bags does not come from the Paca region. We are not self-sufficient.” The statement made by Brigitte Pesle clearly proves that solidarity and donation are useful during this period.
To stay afloat, about 120 to 150 donations per day are needed; however, at the moment, the collection averages 30 to 35 donations per day, highlighting the importance of this operation.
It is quite natural that we find the Blood Donation caravan in front of the faculty of letters. On the field, Dr. André Pizay’s team welcomes you. Already in one of the chairs is Benjamin, a 30-year-old artist who has just donated his blood. Pleased with his action, he finds it “normal to respond to a human call, to help others.” He came by chance to accompany a friend to the university and took the opportunity to go ahead.
But first, he had to register administratively and consult with the doctor.
A consultation of 5 to 10 minutes judged “important” by Dr. André Pizay because “it allows determining the health and psychological state of the donor. The goal is to take no risks and avoid any danger.”
If the consultation is satisfactory, the donor is then handed over to the nurses for the next steps of the operation.
At this stage of donation, we find Danièle Marion, a 20-year-old student in her third year of geography who regularly gives her time and blood. “Since the age of 18, I’ve been donating my blood about three times a year. I started in high school and continue at university.”
After a few minutes, Danièle can go to the back of the truck to eat. This is the final step in a donation. The snack is important both before and after donating blood as it requires a lot of energy. In fact, helping others is as simple as saying hello.
For those who are late, the caravan returns next Wednesday and Friday. So do not hesitate any longer! The lives of some often depend on the lives of others.
