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People are being urged to roll up their sleeves and donate blood at Salmaniya Medical Centre this Friday (September 9) as part of a community initiative to help save lives.
Big-hearted philanthropists Rotaract Bahrain has teamed up with the Budaiya Hub and Manama Hub of the Global Shapers Community, as well as the Alpha Phi Omega Alumni Association Bahrain, for a blood donation and plasma drive called Project Life in a bid to aid individuals injured in accidents, undergoing cancer treatment, and battling blood diseases, for example.
“The project aims to promote a collective movement and culture for blood and plasma donation which not only ensures a sufficient supply for hospitals, but also creates a stronger sense and bond of community,” said Narjes Khalil, the vice curator of the Budaiya Hub which just kicked off earlier this year in July.
This is Budaiya Hub’s first collaborative and public service initiative which was put forward by Marisse Castillon, one of its members.
“If we’re in the position to help better or even save a life, we will do our best to do that,” added Narjes.
“As explained by the World Health Organisation (WHO), blood donation ensures a sufficient supply of blood; making it readily accessible and available whenever needed. One bag of blood can potentially help save three lives!”
According to Razan Jamal, Rotaract Bahrain’s president, the giving group had conducted similar donations last year and continued the drive last month by making donations at the BDF and King Hamad hospitals.
“We aim to continue this project because we are providing blood to different individuals such as sickle cell patients and cancer patients as well,” said Razan.
“Our target is 100 donors so far and, if we can rally more, then why not? Donating blood impacts the community and is an important initiative that I hope the coming presidents continue as it truly does help save lives.”
According to a report by the Mental Health Foundation medical experts, donating blood doesn’t just help recipients but also benefits donors too.
It reduce stress, improves emotional well-being, benefits physical health, helps to get rid of negative feelings, provides a sense of belonging and reduces isolation.
Research has found further evidence of the health benefits that come specifically from donating blood such as lowering blood pressure and lowering the risk of heart attacks.
Those that would like to support Project Life can join the drive from 1pm to 6pm.
For details, follow @budaiyahub and @rotaractbahrain on Instagram.
