Donors Help Save Accident Victim

PHUKET TOWN: Local residents answered a plea for blood donations over the weekend and helped save the life of local resident Michael Ilijass, who was severely injured in a motorbike accident last Friday night. Early Saturday morning, calls for donations of type A Positive blood went out to the general public while doctors at Wachira General Hospital battled to save the victim. Among those who responded were three members of the Phuket International Women’s Club who had registered their blood type on a list maintained by area hospitals, said club president Linda Cumming. Some donors arrived at the hospital’s blood bank as early as 5 a.m. Saturday. Local radio stations broadcast a plea and the Lions Club Pearl, which keeps its own list of each member’s blood type, also responded to the emergency. A hospital spokesman told the Gazette this morning that more than 120 units of blood were donated. While the 23-year-old Australian man survived, doctors had to amputate his right leg and right arm. He was reported in stable condition this morning at Wachira’s Intensive Care Unit. Cumming said her organization has maintained a blood donor list for several years and is coordinating with the local Lions Club chapters to consolidate the names for future emergencies. “We’re there if needed,” she said.