Giving the gift of lifeWest
– Dem. Regional hospital encourage all to donate blood
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, September 15, 2018
As part of encouraging residents of Essequibo Islands-West Demerara to practise healthy lifestyles, the Region Three Health division hosted a mini Blood Drive at the West Demerara Regional Hospital. The activity saw senior officials of the Hospital lead and donating blood.
At a simple opening ceremony held just before the commencement of drive, Regional Health Officer Dr. Johnathan Dudhnath assured all present that this gesture will now become a statutory monthly activity.
“We would agree that blood donation is the act of giving life. Your time spent donating blood here is going to give life to someone in need. Your blood can save anyone from a baby to a senior citizen and for that very reason, we will continue to have this activity on a statutory monthly basis. Blood, it is a gift we all have inside of us to give to those who are injured, sick or in need. There’s no doubt that the need is huge. However, with the support of donors like yourselves, we are keeping our fellow Guyanese brothers and sisters living a healthier, happier and fruitful life. Your act of kindness to volunteer and be a part of blood donation will serve as an inspiration to other people,” RHO Dudhnath said.
Devindra Persaud, a patient at the hospital who visited for his routine check-up, heard of the activity and immediately volunteered. “I normally come to the hospital just to ensure I am healthy and I heard about the blood drive and donated. I enjoy donating blood because I get the opportunity to do a good deed and also giving blood is very healthy as my system gets to replenish and I feel stronger,” said Persaud as he smiled.
The activity was sponsored by the Regional Administration at the request of the Regional Health Officer as he embarks in building better community relationship with residents of Region Three. Dudhnath said that the aim of the hospital is not only to heal the sick but also to encourage healthy living in various forms. The next blood drive is slated for the third Wednesday in October. It is advised to Give Blood and save a Life.
Story and Images: Ganesh Mahipaul.