As part of the nationwide celebrations to mark the 43rd UAE National Day, University Hospital Sharjah (UHS), will organise a blood donation drive at its headquarters, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Sharjah Blood Transfusion & Research Centre, and the Sharjah Health Authority.
Themed ‘Save a life, Give Blood’ the Voluntary Blood Donation Drive will be take place on the 1st of December 2014 at University Hospital Sharjah, from 8.00 AM to 2.00 PM, to raise awareness of the need for safe blood the importance of donating blood in emergencies as well as to thank voluntary blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood.
Michael Stroud, Chief Executive Officer of UHS, on this occasion said, "Donating blood is the most precious gift that we humans can give each other. It is a gift that can save lives and give a new lease of life to many persons in need. We called on all the staff at UHS to voluntarily donate blood in celebration of the UAE National Day, and also out of our eagerness to support such a noble project." "At UHS, we encourage and support our employees to actively participate and contribute to the well-being of society. I am myself a strong advocate of giving back to society, especially in terms of blood donation, as it’s simple, safe, painless and quick, yet the benefits it yields are enormous. Our staff members are always eager to participate, and we hope to create more awareness and encourage more people to donate blood through such initiatives," added Stroud.
Dr. Hakam Yaseen, Chief Medical Officer, said "Blood donation is one of the most important health habits one can do for his own health, apart from its other major benefits. Donating blood stimulates bone marrow cells and leads to depleting iron levels, thus reducing risks of heart diseases. Blood donors are less likely to suffer any of cardiovascular diseases and leukaemia. Other benefit is that blood donors make sure of their safety as blood tests are conducted by a blood bank physician before taking blood from donors. More important is that blood donation gives a proud feeling of touching someone's life in such a beautiful way".
University Hospital Sharjah continuously works on implementing its strategies dedicated to supporting public awareness and educating community member about common diseases, or in event that requires organising awareness campaigns and health activities to educate the public about the proper ways of dealing in such cases.