World Blood Donors Day: Jowai honours heroes of blood donation

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 15, 2024

The Jowai Civil Hospital Blood Centre, Panaliar, marked World Blood Donors Day with an event celebrating the theme, “20 Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You, Blood Donors.” The event, held in the conference hall of the Blood Bank on June 14, honoured the invaluable contributions of regular blood donors, both individuals and organizations, with mementos of appreciation.

Additional Deputy Commissioner, F.B. Basan, MCS, graced the occasion as the chief guest. In his address, Basan emphasised the importance of timely access to blood, highlighting its crucial role in saving lives. He thanked the blood donors for their contributions in saving many lives. He noted that while they may not be rewarded in cash, their efforts are invaluable to someone in need. He later led the audience in reading the pledge, committing to donate blood regularly and to create awareness amongst family members, friends, relatives, colleagues, and the public about the need for regular voluntary unpaid blood donation.

Dr. I. Khyriem, Senior Medical & Health Officer at Jowai Civil Hospital Blood Centre, expressed her profound gratitude, acknowledging the donors’ invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication. She also highlighted the importance of regular blood donation to ensure the quality, safety, and availability of blood for patients in need. Encouraging college-going students aged 18 and above to come forward and donate blood, Dr. Khyriem emphasized that the centre needs more people to become regular donors. Additionally, she noted that there are very few female donors and urged more women to participate.

One of the regular blood donors who has donated 10 times, Naoo Saki Garod, mentioned that having a blood centre in the district has been immensely beneficial to many people. Previously, people had to travel to Shillong to get admitted to hospitals for blood transfusions or to obtain blood. He stressed that the centre needs sufficient blood in stock to be able to provide for those in need locally, especially in emergencies.

Mementos of appreciation were presented to individual blood donors Ebed Adonai Andronicus Chullai, Solly Meekway Bareh, Williambor Sumer, and Naoo Saki Garod in recognition of their significant commitment with ten blood donations each. Additionally, organisations Sarot. i man, Jingiaseng Samla Presbyterian Jowai, Occupational Health Centre Dalmia Cement Bharat Ltd, Kur Sookpoh khad Arwyrnai, Dorbar Shnong Chilliang Raij, Seng Samla Unitarian Church, Jowai, Woodland WK Hospital Sabahmuswang, HDFC Bank, Jowai, Department CSR Star Cement, Khynroo Khyllood Committee Seinraj Jowai, North-East Adventist University, Khliehtyrshi, Deimayatori, Green Valley Industries, Meghalaya Cricket Association WJHD, West Jaintia Adventure & Cycling Association, Jowai Civil Hospital Blood Centre, Ae-Deimaya, Seng Samla Katholik Jowai, and the Indian Red Cross Society WJHD were also acknowledged and honoured for their valuable support and contributions.

A special song was presented by Mr. Armanki Nikhla from Chilliang Raij, Jowai on this occasion.