Globally celebrated and recognised by the World Health Organisation, this year’s World Blood Donor Day features the theme: “20 years of celebrating giving: thank you, blood donors!”, aimed at appreciating willing blood donors. Donating a pint of blood, approximately 450ml to 500ml, can save up to three individuals.
In one year, a donor can donate up to four times, with many making blood donation a regular routine every three months. Driven by humanitarian causes, most donors are willing and sincere in their contributions. Four individuals were interviewed to share their experiences and reasons for starting to donate.
Annabella Wee, 39
If my dad were still around, he would be able to tell you all about his blood donation stories. He started donating in his early 20s and donated over 100 times. Initially, he did it for fun, but it soon became a regular commitment because he believed that if he couldn’t donate money or help in other ways, his blood could make a difference. His dedication inspired me to donate blood regularly as well. However, I paused for a while due to pregnancy, childbirth, and now breastfeeding. Nevertheless, I encouraged my husband to start donating too. We all began this journey because of my dad and the values he instilled in us.
Tan Yee Boon, 40
My first time donating was in 2005. Back then, I followed my colleague to a blood donation drive organised by the Red Crescent. I remember feeling nervous, but now, I feel just fine. Donating blood has become a normal routine for me, like eating and breathing. I usually donate every four months and have donated over 30 times. I feel much fresher every time after donating because our blood renews itself. As members of society, we all have a responsibility to contribute. If we can’t afford to donate money, we can donate blood. A pint of blood can save up to three lives.
Ting Hui Ling, 30
On October 12, 2015, I donated blood for the first time at a programme organised by my company in liaison with Sarawak General Hospital (SGH). Since 2014, I had eagerly awaited the opportunity to donate blood, but initially, my weight didn’t meet the requirement. Determined, I worked on gaining weight so that when the chance to donate finally came, I seized it. The process feels like a quick pinch and is over within seconds. While I used to feel nervous each time, today I can calmly watch as the nurse draws blood from my arm. I now donate every three months at SGH. For me, donating blood means giving others a chance to live. Regular donors like myself play a crucial role in maintaining our nation’s stable blood supply, knowing that each pint of donated whole blood can potentially save up to three lives. It is also a way to contribute to someone else’s wellbeing.
Melvin Ngumbang, 41
My first time donating blood was during my first year in college out of curiosity. There were regular blood donation campaigns every three months, and I would consistently participate. Gradually, it became a natural habit for me. I learned from a health officer in training that blood donation is a healthy process that helps cleanse our blood and produce new, healthy blood cells in our bodies. During a high dengue season, I and another friend who also regularly donates blood were called by Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) to donate. It was a memorable experience I won’t forget. Due to my regular donations, I also received a certificate from the Malaysian Red Crescent Society. From my experiences, I learned that we do not need superpowers or capes to be superheroes. Being a blood donor is a meaningful way to save lives.
