The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) of the Ministry of Health yesteday hosted an appreciation ceremony at its East and Lamaha Streets location in Georgetown, honouring its top voluntary donors for their valuable contributions over the years.
This activity was held to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank voluntary unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood.
NBTS’ Director Dr. Nadia Liu thanked all the donors who have donated blood over the years, noting that their act has ensured that 7717 units were achieved by the Blood Bank.
She said that in Guyana more accidents are occurring causing the loss of blood by victims and the need for more blood in the hospitals is increasing. Dr. Liu added that the blood bank will always be calling donors to continue to give blood.
Ms. Radhamonie Das also from the NBTS highlighted that in many countries, there is not an adequate supply of safe blood, and blood services face the challenge of making sufficient blood available while ensuring quality and safety.
“Today in just 62 countries, national blood supplies are based on close to 100% voluntary unpaid donations, with 40 countries still dependent on family donors. The National Blood Transfusion Service of Guyana has achieved over 90% and is aiming for 100% voluntary unpaid blood donation by the end of 2013,” Das said.
Donor Wayne Bakker said he started giving blood since 1987 when he was encouraged by his father and has been donating as often as he could. He said it has made him feel stronger mentally and physically.
Bakker added that he constantly travels to the interior region and due to continuously donating blood; he has never been affected by malaria or any other diseases.
The donors were presented with awards and certificates by representatives from the NBTS.
