In the light of the recent low blood supplies for blood types A+ and O+, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung called for blood donors to step forward (More than 3,000 people turn up to give blood after Red Cross appeal for A+, O+ donors, July 17).
His Facebook post generated an overwhelming response.
As we celebrate our upcoming 57th National Day, let us do more to build a better home for everyone. The recent response to the call for blood donors was heartening, and also a reminder to Singaporeans that we can do more to ensure a healthy blood supply for our Republic. Blood is life-saving.
Before becoming a regular blood donor, I used to fear the pain of the needle. Imagining the possible adverse reactions I could have post-donation compounded these fears, which, in hindsight, were irrational.
The defining factor that made me step forward for blood donation was knowing that my O+ blood could save many others even if they have a different blood type.
After turning up for my first donation, I realised that the donation process itself was painless. The blood donation felt very safe. Like most donors, I did not have any adverse reaction.
Thus, I encourage both donors and potential donors, if medically fit, to step forward to donate blood selflessly, this time with a commitment to donate regularly, so that Singapore will never fear facing a blood supply shortage.
Wong Shi Hui