Defense Forces to Withdraw From Blood Drive
The Defense Forces, which have helped organize the nation's annual summertime blood donation campaign, have decided to drop the project as it has grown too ambitious to fit into their daily chores.
Since the project was initiated five years ago, the Defense Forces have been providing the North Estonia Medical Center's Blood Center with tents, transportation and, if necessary, manpower.
However, the campaign has now grown from the initial one-day event to a two-and-a-half week long operation, Postimees reported. In its current form it puts quite a pressure on the military's means, as it spent 4,000 euros only on engine fuel last year, Defense Forces Chief Surgeon Lt. Col. Kersti Lea said. Therefore, this year's campaign, planned for July and August, will be the last to see the military's participation.
Riin Kullaste, head of the blood center, acknowledged that over the years a large burden had been placed on the shoulders of the military and said that the center now needs to quickly establish better cooperation with ministries and seek new partners.
Ingrid Teesalu