Vachira Hospital thanks blood donors on 49th anniversary
PHUKET: Vachira Phuket Hospital on Monday awarded certificates and souvenirs to more than 50 regular blood donors to the hospital’s blood bank.
The ‘thank you’ event for blood donors and more than 70 supporting organizations was hosted by hospital director Dr Jessada Chungpaibulpatana at the hospital’s Baan Khun Poom building and coincided with the blood bank’s 49th anniversary.
Among the distinguished guests were Phuket Vice Governor Kajornkiet Rakpanitmanee as well as 52 blood donors, among whom were people who have given blood between 48 and 96 times.
“The Vachira Hospital Blood Bank was opened on May 23, 1967 after a visit by HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej and HM Queen Sirikit” for that purpose said the hospital’s blood bank head Dr Suprang Suttantapidok.
“So this event is to honor the king and queen of Thailand and to thank all the people who have donated blood over the years,” she said.
“Last year 29,360 units of all blood were supplied to patients in Phuket. We’d like to thank the media for publicizing blood donation drives, which have helped save many lives,” she added.
Donor Sampawat Wannasangkam has donated blood 76 times since he was a teenager.
“Next month will be my 77th donation,” said Mr Sampawat. “I first donated on August 2, 1989 and I have donated 4 times a year since then.”
“I’m glad my blood can go to help save others’ lives. Giving blood has the added benefit of a free medical check-up whenever you donate,” he said.
Donor Thitipong Lohatad has overcome a fear of needles by giving blood regularly.
“I first donated about five years ago when I was a student. A friend of mine dragged me along to the blood bank without telling me what he was going to do. The next thing I knew was standing there,” he said.
“My friend asked me if I wanted to donate as well, so I did. I was surprised that it didn’t hurt when they stuck the needle in my arm. It felt great and I have been donating ever since,” he said.
“I am not rich but I love helping people, so giving blood is something I can do for a good cause instead of donating money,” said Mr Thitipong.
— Chutharat Plerin
