A Telegram channel called "Odessa Donors" recently issued an urgent appeal for blood types I(+) and III(+) to supply Ukrainian defenders, illustrating the persistent shortage of blood reserves that has gripped the city since Russia's full-scale invasion began. Odessa (a major port city on Ukraine's Black Sea coast) resident and freelance journalist Artem Perfilov responded to the call, making his third donation since the war started, describing a routine of pre-screening checks, a 15-to-20-minute blood draw, and post-donation rest and refreshments. The episode highlights how wartime medical need has made blood donation a recurring civic act for many Ukrainians, with donation centres now issuing certificates and running regular appeals to sustain military medical supplies.