A rush to give blood
247 help replenish supply at National Blood Bank
A total of 247 people came to donate blood when the blood bank opened its doors on a Sunday.
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 247 people turned up for a blood donation drive after reading media reports of a shortage.
The drive was also in conjunction with the opening of the National Blood Bank for the first time on a Sunday.
On Saturday, blood bank director Dr Roshida Hassan said supply had run low following the long stretch of holidays since November.
Among those who turned up was a family of four led by technical consultant M. Kamalaharan, 45, who had been donating blood since he was 21.
His wife R. Karthiyayani, 40, also donated blood after reading about the shortage.
“We told our two children about the importance of donating blood since they were young,” said Kamalaharan.
Housewife Norehan Yong, 43, said she has been donating blood since 1999.
She started donating after the birth of her third and youngest child.
“My husband donates blood as well, and he wanted to come today but he was feeling ill,” she said, adding that being a donor means she is indirectly helping people in need.
For Dr Nor Helinda Ibrahim, 41, this was her first time at a blood bank.
“I am happy to be given the opportunity to do so today,” she said.
Another regular was actress Sheera Iskandar, 27, who brought along four other friends.
“I want to help save lives,” she said.
Dr Roshida was happy with the response.
“Today’s turnout is double our usual number on Saturdays.
“This will ensure that our blood supply is adequate despite the holidays,” she added.
The blood bank is open from 8am to 4pm on Sunday.
For more information visit www. pdn.gov.my or contact 03-2693 3888.