Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafor, a regular blood donor, shared his experience during a blood donation campaign yesterday, held in conjunction with the 34th Teacher’s Day celebration.
“This is my 119th time donating blood. I first donated when I was 20, after my daughter became ill and needed blood. Since then, I’ve continued to donate,” said Haji Ali Yusri.
He added, “Donating blood makes me feel good and even at 65 years old, I feel healthy.
There’s a misconception that donating blood leads to weight gain. That’s not true. One donation can save up to three lives, and the health screening before donation also provides a basic health check.”
Meanwhile, special duties officer at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Muhammad Afiq bin Ali, who donated blood for the first time, said “I was nervous, but it didn’t hurt at all. After learning my blood type, I’ll continue donating.”
His advice to others: “Don’t be afraid – donating blood helps save lives”.
The blood donation drive was organised by the Uniform and Service Division of the Department of Co-Curriculum Education, in collaboration with the Blood Reserve Division, Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, Ministry of Health held at the MoE’s new premises.
Some 106 pints of blood were collected from ministry staff and the public at the campaign, to help replenish the blood reserves at the RIPAS Hospital’s Blood Donation Centre.
The campaign also aimed to raise awareness on the importance of blood donation in saving lives and as one of the activities organised to mark Teacher’s Day. – James Kon
