Volunteers step forward to give blood during pandemic

Teoh (right) says the club’s inaugural blood donation drive is aimed at replenishing supplies at the Penang Hospital blood bank.

THE Covid-19 pandemic did not stop the public from doing their part in replenishing the low blood supply at Penang Hospital.

Organised by Lions Club of Tanjung Star, the blood donation drive saw a large crowd supporting the noble initiative at Prangin Mall, Penang recently.

Among them was factory manager Ng Kheng Seong, 46, who was donating blood for the third time this year.

“I donate blood every year and I am happy to donate during the movement control order period.

“I feel safe giving blood and I’m not at all worried, ” he said.

Engineer Serene Khaw, 25, woke up early that day to donate blood after learning that the Penang Hospital blood bank was running low on supplies.

“I am not worried about donating blood during the pandemic as I am certain that the organiser will adhere strictly to the Covid-19 standard operating procedures.

“For sure, all the seats will be disinfected each time a donor leaves, ” she said.

Khaw giving blood at the event at Prangin Mall, Penang. — Photos: ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star

In his opening remarks, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng said donating blood is one of the simplest ways of contributing to the community.

“By donating blood, you will not only save lives, but also allow our body to generate new blood cells and therefore, make your body stronger at fighting off diseases.

“The health benefits of blood donation are widely researched and known to also help in weight loss, giving the blood donor a healthier heart and reduced risk of cancer.

“Apart from the blood donation drive, there is also a Covid-19 awareness campaign being held.

“While we have gotten used to the new normal during the pandemic, I’m equally worried that many people have started to ‘relax’ by not observing physical distancing now.

I feel safe donating blood during the MCO, says Ng.

“Due to such apathy, there has been a rebound of Covid-19 cases in many countries.

“An awareness campaign is vital to help remind the public that the pandemic is not over yet and that we need to remain vigilant, ” he said.

Lions Club of Tanjung Star president Teoh Kheng Tatt said they were organising blood donation drive for the first time as the blood bank in Penang Hospital was running low on supplies.

“We invited a doctor to talk on childhood cancer.

“The district health office also joined us and set up a Covid-19 awareness booth, ” he said.

Chin Kang Hoay Kuan youth chairman Raymin Yew said 15 pints of blood were collected within the first hour of the blood donation drive.