NGO seeks more blood donors to save lives
Blood
By Sarafina Christopher and Eletta Mercy
Jela Development Initiative (JDI), an NGO, has appealed to the public to donate blood to address the shortage of blood supply in hospitals and healthcare facilities nationwide.
The NGO made the appeal during a blood drive on Saturday in Abuja.
The blood drive, in collaboration with the National Blood Service Commission (NBSC) and Rotary Club of Abuja is themed “Be a hero, donate blood and save lives.”
The Chief Executive Officer of the NGO, Mrs Angela Omeiza, stressed the importance of providing blood donations to aid patients in life-threatening conditions.
Omeiza, represented by the NGO’s Programme Assistant, Ms Oluchi Ihezie, said that blood donation is a noble and selfless act that impact on people’s lives.
“The organisation is dedicated to promoting voluntary blood donations, recognising the challenges many face in accessing blood due to its high cost.”
Omeiza further stated that there was a surging demand for blood not only within the nation but also across the continent and globally.
“Patients requiring blood, such as those grappling with severe illnesses like cancer or undergoing intensive medical treatments, heavily rely on blood transfusions for their survival.”
Also, Mrs Omotayo Ottun, Donor Recruiter NBSC, pointed out that blood donors not only contribute to a life-saving cause but also benefit from comprehensive medical check-ups prior to donation.
“The main targets of the donation are the excess blood in your system, which the body is not using, a sachet of that blood after every three months for men and four months for women can save three people’s lives.
“Donations also help to produce new red blood cells making it more active in your system, it helps burn calories and also regulates the heart effectively,” Ottun said.
Mr Theophilus Apeh, representing the Rotary Club of Abuja Federal, commended blood donors for their invaluable contributions to the humanitarian endeavour.
Apeh also urged the relevant authorities to ensure that donated blood reached patients in need without imposing any financial burdens.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that an anonymous first-time blood donor shared her experience in partaking in the noble cause and overcoming initial apprehensions surrounding blood donation.
She also expressed appreciation for the rigorous screening procedures carried out to ensure donor eligibility and blood safety.(NAN) (www.nannews.com.ng)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
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