Credit: Luxembourg Red Cross
On Saturday 10 October 2026, the Luxembourg Red Cross honoured 161 blood donors during a ceremony in Diekirch, recognising their contributions to blood, platelet and plasma donations in Luxembourg.
According to the Luxembourg Red Cross, the ceremony took place in the presence of Her Royal Highness the Grand Duchess, Minister of Health and Social Security Martine Deprez, Diekirch municipal councillor Robert Bonhert and Dr Guillaume Steichen, representing the Luxembourg Red Cross Foundation for Blood Transfusion.
The donors received Medals of Merit in recognition of their long-standing commitment, with bronze medals awarded for 20 donations, silver for 40 and vermeil for 80 donations. Some recipients had been donating blood for several decades, said the organisation.
During the ceremony, Dr Guillaume Steichen delivered a speech in which he praised the donors' commitment and highlighted their role in maintaining blood supplies for Luxembourg's hospitals. "You do not know the people you help, but they benefit directly from your commitment. Thanks to you, a discreet but essential chain of solidarity continues to function day after day, throughout our country," he said.
The organisation noted that maintaining sufficient blood reserves remains an ongoing challenge. Over the past year, it said it has issued several appeals for donations to replenish supplies, with donors responding to help meet the needs of healthcare facilities.
The Luxembourg Red Cross Blood Transfusion Centre aims to ensure the country's self-sufficiency in blood products, supplying patients according to medical needs, regardless of nationality, ethnic origin or social background.
Dr Guillaume Steichen concluded by thanking the donors for their continued support, stating: "You are the reason why thousands of patients can receive treatment every year. You are proof that solidarity remains a strong value in Luxembourg. Thank you for your time, your loyalty and your trust."
