Jigmi Wangdi

One blood donor can save three lives. Such a selfless act of blood donation can save the lives of many patients who are in dire need of blood transfusions.

The unsung heroes of society and their invaluable contributions to saving lives were celebrated yesterday during World Blood Donor Day.

Among the many donors, Dawa Dorji, 39, has donated blood more than 44 times voluntarily since 2001.

“I live in the Changzamtog area in Thimphu. Since I was in school, when walking by the hospital on the way home, I used to hear people talk about how a patient could not survive because there was not enough blood,” Dawa said.

He recounted the times when a medical expert was among the first people who told him about the importance of donating blood and how a small act such as that can help save lives.

“I have not looked back since then. I started donating blood ever since,” Dawa said, adding that he donates blood without expecting anything in return.   

Similarly, Tshering Zangmo, 42, first donated blood in 2008. Since then, Tshering has donated blood more than 32 times.

“I first started to donate blood in 2008 when a colleague of mine at work got sick and needed blood,” Tshering shared.

Tshering said that patients who are suffering from blood diseases need transfusions. “They suffer so much when they cannot get donors. So, it is our responsibility to help them.”

Dawa Dorji said that healthcare in Bhutan was free and that donating blood was very important. “Even a small contribution matters when it comes to saving lives.”

Speaking on the importance of how blood donations save lives, the son of a blood recipient shared how his mother’s life was saved because of the selflessness of donors.

“Many people might not be able to comprehend the benefits of blood donation and its effect on a recipient’s life. Being a beneficiary of the donors and because of their selfless act, my mother can see the rays of the sun every day,” he said.

He added that his mother would not have survived if not for the blood donation she received.

Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk and Health Secretary Pemba Wangchuk both underscored the importance of blood donation. They expressed their gratitude to the donors and encouraged more voluntary donations in the future.

Today, the country has 27 blood banks. 

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