“Although I had never met Mariam, the thought that our lives would become intertwined through the simple act of blood donation touched me deeply.I’ve come to understand that blood donation is a gift that not only saves lives but also brings comfort to families, hope to patients and gratitude to those who witness its profound effects.”
Ilham’s Story
I hardly donate blood because of the misconceptions I heard from the people in my community. Some say donating blood leads to health problems that weaken the body, others say blood donation is necessary only during emergencies and even some say people with chronic illnesses cannot donate blood. However, CALID GH, an NGO, further stressed on the need to donate blood in one of their many community outreaches. I, personally, am also fortunate to have witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of blood donation that makes me dispel these misconceptions and raise awareness about the importance and benefits of donating blood.
One fateful Tuesday, I walked into the Sheini community blood donation center in the Kumbungu district, nervous but determined. I knew that my decision to donate blood could potentially make a difference in someone’s life. As I sat in the waiting area, I overheard two nurses discussing a case about a little girl who needed transfusion immediately and that her blood type was not in the bank because the people in the community are afraid to donate blood. Mariam was her name, coincidentally, she bears the same name as my late aunt who died from an autoimmune condition. Mariam had been battling with sickle cell disease and this time around she was anemic to the extent that she needed blood urgently. Fortunately we share the same blood group and so I walked up to them and offered to donate mine since that was why I went there in the first place. The nurse guided me to a comfortable bed and prepared me for the donation process. As the needle pierced my skin, I closed my eyes and focused on the knowledge that my act of kindness could bring hope and healing to someone in need. Although I had never met Mariam, the thought that our lives would become intertwined through the simple act of blood donation touched me deeply. After donating my blood, I was hit with the sad news of Mariam’s demise. The donation was not in time to save the little one. I left the premises in shock but I left my contact with them so that they can call me in case they get a patient who needs blood transfusion. A week after, I received a call from the facility. My blood had played a significant role in sustaining someone during a critical moment. Even though I couldn’t save little Mariam, I saved a life.
Driven by this experience, I made a decision to donate blood regularly. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that blood donation is a gift that not only saves lives but also brings comfort to families, hope to patients and gratitude to those who witness its profound effects. Being a part of this chain of generosity has been a privilege, forming an indelible connection between the act of donation and the lives it touches. So, as a blood donor, I encourage others to join this noble course. Through our collective efforts, we can continue to make a difference, one donation at a time and forever be part of the inspiring stories of hope, resilience and transformative power of blood.
