As part of activities marking the Y2024 World Blood Donation Day (WBDD), the General Hospital, Somolu, has advised residents to cultivate the habit of making voluntary blood donation because of the numerous health benefits to the donors.
Speaking during an event held at the facility on Friday to commemorate the Day, The Medical Director/CEO of the Hospital, Dr. Babalola Dokun Ogungbemile said sensitising patients and residents on the importance of voluntary blood donation is necessary, reiterating that blood donation has a significant impact on the lives of the people.
In her remarks, the Chairman of the Blood Transfusion Committee of the Hospital, Dr. Olufunmilayo Morenike Adegbomire said the benefits of blood donation to the donor include the replenishment of blood, heart health advantage, emotional and mental well-being, enhancement and weight management support, among others.
Similarly, the Head of the Medical Laboratory Department, Mrs. Helen Opeoluwa Adegboyega, also a member of the Committee, averred that a single pint of blood donated by a voluntary donor is regarded as a precious gift to humanity because blood is life.
She further explained that the theme for this year’s celebration: “20 Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank you blood donors!”, serves as an opportunity to show gratitude to blood donors worldwide for their immense contributions to the well-being of the human race. It also serves as a call for action to join the global movement of voluntary blood donation.
The high point of the event was the free blood screening and voluntary blood donation by members of staff and Somolu residents.