Employees of Zaporizhstal and their family members participated in a blood donation drive to support local hospitals. The first donation event of 2025, organised by the Zaporizhstal Youth Organisation, took place at the Zaporizhia Regional Blood Service Centre and saw 55 employees and their family members join the initiative.
The campaign successfully collected nearly 25 litres of blood, and organisers plan to continue holding similar events in the future.
“The contribution of our donors is invaluable, as the blood collected can help improve the health of those in need. We plan to continue organising blood donation drives every quarter, so I encourage everyone to follow announcements from the youth organisation and get involved in this meaningful cause,” said Serhii PETROV, an activist with the plant’s youth organisation.
Before donating, employees undergo pre-donation procedures to ensure they are properly prepared.
“I have been donating blood regularly for two years now. Following the right diet is crucial, but it’s not difficult – there are special apps with guidelines and tips. For example, it’s recommended to avoid dairy products, fatty meats, and eggs. Instead, a diet rich in grains, potatoes, bread, pasta, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water is advised,” shared Oleksandr TYKHONOVSKYI, a repair specialist at Zaporizhstal’s hot rolling shop.
Many of the participants in the campaign are seasoned donors. For Stanislav, a Zaporizhstal employee, this was already his 18th blood donation.
“Donating blood is easy, especially when it becomes a habit. I donate two to three times a year. The whole process takes no more than half an hour, including registration, a blood test, a consultation with a doctor, a light snack, and the donation itself. And the benefit to those in need is invaluable,” said Stanislav LAPENKO, foreman at Zaporizhstal’s cold rolling shop.
Oleksandr Butkevych is also on his way to earning the Honoured Donor title. He donates blood not only during organised drives but also whenever acquaintances request it.
“For anyone still unsure about donating, I encourage you to try it at least once. It’s not just a way to help others – it’s also beneficial for your own health. You get a free blood test, a quick check-up, and a chance to refresh your body. I always feel energised and uplifted after donating blood,” said Oleksandr BUTKEVYCH, head of the Railway Transport Operations Management Shop at Zaporizhstal.
For Zaporizhstal employees, blood donation has long been a regular practice. Even before Russia’s full-scale invasion, employees of Metinvest’s Zaporizhia enterprises consistently donated blood to replenish supplies in local and regional hospitals. Throughout the war, they have continued this life-saving mission, helping ensure a steady supply for those in need.
