Donate blood, please.
A new drive to get voluntary blood donors to come forward and donate blood was launched recently in Male’. This new campaign has been launched to coincide with the establishment of a new central blood bank in the country.
A large number of Maldivian children and adolescents require blood transfusions every months for managing beta Thalassaemia major; a blood disorder that requires life long, regular blood transfusions to sustain life. For this reason there is a very high demand for transfusable blood in Maldives. Until recently we had only a limited capacity to collect and safely store blood.
The establishment of a central blood bank could pave the way for ensuring a ready supply of blood for patients with beta Thalassaemia major and others who require blood transfusions for various causes. However, for the new blood bank to be successful, we need more people to come forward as blood donors. As a voluntary blood donors, regularly donating blood once every 3-6 months regardless of who the recipient is, each one of us could contribute to this noble cause.
I urge all adults to consult their doctor regarding their fitness for blood donation and join the pool of voluntary blood donors. Alternatively, those interested to donate could visit one of the blood collection points (IGMH blood bank or National Thalassaemia Center) where fitness for donation can be assessed and more information obtained.
Please join the cause. Your blood could indeed help save a life!
