Blood Donation Action Violets for All People: "People know they've come home, to the home of champions, where they belong".

A blood donation campaign held in the People's Garden on September 1 and 2, 2026, under the name Vijolčna kri za vse ljudi (“Purple Blood for All People”), attracted large numbers of donors, including athletes, coaches, fans, families, and even children. The event was described as a heartfelt expression of community solidarity, with participants believing that by donating blood they were giving life to others. The phrase “Ljudje vedo, da so prišli domov, v dom prvakov, kjer je njihovo mesto” (“People know they have come home, to the house of champions, where their place is”) became a recurring theme among organizers and attendees, emphasizing the emotional significance of the event. Among the many who participated, one young woman, 18 years old, had been waiting for ten years to finally donate blood. Her story highlighted the personal journey of many individuals who had long dreamed of contributing to the cause. She was joined by her mother, who brought a child to learn about blood donation, and other families who came together to support the initiative. The event also included moments of joy and hope, such as a woman who donated blood for her nephew in a wheelchair, planning to give him a special shirt as a gift. These small gestures underscored the deeper meaning behind the act of giving blood, not just for the recipient, but for the donor as well. The campaign’s organizer, Mojca Pepelnik, expressed her satisfaction with the turnout, noting that both days saw a steady stream of donors. She emphasized that the success of the event went beyond the numerical achievements, highlighting instead the emotional impact and sense of unity among participants. Pepelnik spoke of the empathy and generosity displayed by all who attended, describing them as “very empathetic and selfless people.” She noted that while the act of donating blood is free, she believed there was a reciprocal benefit, a kind of reward that could not be measured in material terms. This was reflected in the symbolic gifts exchanged, such as shirts handed out to donors, which represented more than just clothing, they symbolized the shared values of compassion and care. Pepelnik also praised the atmosphere created by the event, calling it a “purple song” that resonated throughout the day. The presence of fans and supporters, singing songs associated with the club, reinforced the idea that this was not just a medical event but a celebration of community spirit. She described how the energy of the crowd made the experience unique, with some attendees arriving early and forming small groups, creating a sense of camaraderie. For Pepelnik, these moments were deeply moving, underscoring the power of collective action and the importance of human connection. One notable participant was Peter Možič, a well-known figure in sports and table tennis. He praised the campaign for its ability to bring together sport and humanitarian efforts, calling it a meaningful tradition that he hoped would continue for years to come. Možič expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to a cause that aligned with his values, noting that the event encouraged people to think about helping others. He mentioned that he had taken extra time to wear a special band around his arm, drawing attention to his participation and prompting conversations about the importance of giving. His comments reflected a broader sentiment among donors, that the act of giving blood could be a source of pride and fulfillment. As the event drew to a close, the organizers and participants alike felt a deep sense of accomplishment. They had not only collected a substantial amount of blood but had also strengthened the bonds within the community. The campaign served as a powerful reminder of the role each individual can play in making a difference, whether through direct action or by inspiring others to join in. The legacy of Vijolčna kri za vse ljudi will likely endure, continuing to inspire future generations to give back and support one another.