KUCHING: Three regular blood donors turned up at the blood donation drive held at the lobby of Mydin Vista Tunku Petra Jaya from 10am to 3pm yesterday (Oct 16).
The trio were Latifah Bojeng, a 59-year-old woman from Sri Aman, Mohd Khirrudden Nizam Joll, 28, and Nurshahlan Sahad, 39.
The blood donation drive was jointly organised by the Information Department (JaPen) and the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) Blood Bank in view of the blood bank’s dwindling blood supplies. It targeted over 100 eligible blood donors.
Latifah has donated blood 93 times and plans to continue doing so until she reaches the age of 70.
“I am honoured to donate my blood. I do not mind what state or who receives my blood as long as I can help save someone’s life.
“I hope I will always be in great health to donate blood as this is the only way for me to help those in need,” she said.
Latifah said once, she was unable to save the life of a young boy suffering from leukaemia.
“I was at work when he texted, so I couldn’t come forward right away to donate blood. When I finally turned up, he was already gone.
“It was a huge blow to me. I was very devastated because I was unable to help save his life.
“After that incident, I promised myself I would not disregard any calls from the blood bank. I also make sure I donate my blood once every three months,” she added.
Another regular blood donor, Mohd Khirrudden Nizam Joll considered his donation as a good deed in life.
“Since I am unable to give to the community in other ways, blood donation is the best option for me to assist people in need.
“I feel even better after donating blood. I was told that the blood flow in my body will become smoother and new blood will be generated after the donation.
“So, do not be afraid to donate your blood to a good cause. We may also learn about our health from the blood donation such as our cholesterol level and blood pressure and become more mindful of our health,” he added.
Another regular blood donor, Nurshahlan Sahad is happy to donate his blood to those in need.
“I frequently follow Telegram’s blood donation alerts and so far, this is the 16th time I am donating blood.
“I encourage everyone to exercise and donate blood because it has many health benefits in addition to assisting people in need.
“My intention is to continue donating blood for as long as I can,” he said.
