National Voluntary Blood Donation Day observed in Shillong

SHILLONG: Along with rest of the country, the 'National Voluntary Blood Donation Day' (NVBDD) was celebrated here also. The day marks the opportunity to thank the blood donors for their life-saving gift — their blood. The occasion is celebrated to raise awareness of the need for regular non-remunerated voluntary blood donation so as to ensure the availability, quality and safety of blood and blood products for patients in need.

The theme of 'National Voluntary Blood Donation Day-2020' is "Lets donate blood voluntarily and contribute to the fight against Corona". The campaign, on October 1, aimed at encouraging the masses, especially the youth, to come forward voluntarily and donate blood and be a warrior in this fight against Corona, to highlight stories of people whose lives have been saved through blood donation, as a way of motivating regular blood donors to continue giving blood, and to motivate people in good health who have never given blood to begin doing so, particularly young people.

In this regard, Meghalaya AIDS Control Society in collaboration with Jingiaseng Samla Balang Presbyterian, Mawlai Nongkwar and Meghalaya State Blood Transfusion Council observed National Voluntary Blood Donation Day 2020 at the premises of Presbyterian Church, Mawlai Nongkwar.

Blood is an important resource for preventing maternal deaths, helping the patients of various blood dyscrasias to live long and healthy life, treat emergencies like trauma, planned surgeries and natural disasters. Blood transfusion is an essential component of emergency health care. Emergencies increase the demand for blood transfusion and make its delivery challenging and complex. Adequate supply of blood during emergencies requires a well-organized blood service, and this can only be ensured by engaging the entire community and a blood donor population committed to voluntary unpaid blood donation throughout the year, stressed the speakers during the meeting Among the dignitaries present were Dr R Allya, Project Director, Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, Shillong, Dr C Budnah, Member Secretary, Meghalaya State Blood Transfusion Council, AMS Kharsati,Chairman, Jingiaseng Samla Balang Presbyterian, Mawlai Nongkwar and members besides others.

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