Fortis Vadapalani celebrates 75 Years of Independence by organizing Blood Donation Drive

Chennai, August 15, 2022: On the occasion of the 75th Independence Day, Fortis Hospital, Vadapalani along with Nourishment for the Needy, an NGO, organized a day-long Blood Donation Camp on August 15, 2022 at Fortis Hospital, Vadapalani. The event was graced by Chief Guest social activist and MDMK Chief Secretary Thiru Durai Vaiko and Mr. Venkat Phanidhar Nelluri, Zonal Director, Fortis Hospitals, and witnessed participation from 100 donors.

Safe blood saves lives. Blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person – the gift of life. A decision to donate blood can save a life, or even several if the blood is separated into its components – red cells, platelets and plasma. Every pint of your blood can save the life of upto 3 people, improve their lives and enhances social solidarity. It sends a powerful message of mutual aid and brings about a societal commitment. For healthy adults, blood donation is not only safe, but also provides a sense of belonging and pride.

"Although many patients require transfusion they do not have timely access to safe blood. This blood donation drive is aimed to encourage the youth and instill the sense of responsibility among them. There is a dearth for blood because of the fear of infection among donors", says Dr. Shanmugha Priya R.A, Blood Centre incharge at Fortis Hospital, Vadapalani. 'To avoid this kind of a situation in future, Fortis Hospital urges the youth to volunteer to donate blood', she adds.

Gracing the occasion, Mr. Venkat Phanidhar Nelluri, Zonal Director, Fortis Hospitals, Vadapalani said “Shortage of blood is a serious concern.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India suffers from an annual deficit of 2 million blood units. This is because less than 1% of the Indian population donates blood each year. Every life is important, healthy donors are even more important and one needs to understand the urgency of saving lives by donating blood. As a healthcare provider, we should be at the forefront of awareness drive and campaigns to educate the masses especially the youth on the importance of blood donation in our Tamil Nadu and the nation”.

Speaking at the blood donation camp, The organisers from Nourishment for Needy, R.V. Satheesh Kumar, Director Programme added, “The blood donation camps are conducted periodically to ensure that as many lives as possible are saved. A sense of moral responsibility in creating a healthy community is established among those who are committed to save lives. Every camp encourages first timers, youth and students to be a donor for a lifetime. On this Independence day, where we pay homage to our freedom fighters, it is important that the donors are also given recognition”.

To register to become a blood donor, call 044 4020 4040.