Give blood to save lives during Christmas and New Year holidays (with photo)

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesman for the Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service (BTS) today (December 17) appealed to members of the public to donate blood during the Christmas and New Year holidays. As the demand for blood is continuing to increase with the approach of the winter surge at public hospitals, blood inventories have been depleting to very low levels. The inventories have to be duly replenished to maintain a stable blood supply for clinical transfusion to patients in hospital. Members of the public are also encouraged to register for bone marrow donation to give patients the blessing of reunions. 

     Just before the Christmas and New Year holidays, Grace (false name), who was diagnosed with thalassaemia major, went to a hospital for a blood transfusion. Due to serious impairment in haemoglobin production, she has required lifelong regular blood transfusions in hospitals since childhood. She said, "My life was given by countless generous blood donors. Thanks to every blood donor who is willing to donate to sustain patients' life." The patient is a social worker, and she shares her passion empowered by the blood received from numerous donors with those who need a helping hand.

     Most BTS donor centres will maintain service during the Christmas and New Year holidays. As a token of thanks, the BTS has prepared a festive tote bag for blood donors who come forward to give blood from December 17 to 27 at a donor centre or donation vehicle. Please refer to the attached promotional poster for details.

     Anyone aged between 16 and 65 (donation is possible up to the age of 75 if predetermined conditions are met), weighs 41 kilograms or above and is in good health is eligible to give blood. To prevent crowds from gathering and long waiting times at the donor centres, donors are advised to make appointments by calling the BTS' donor centres or via the "HK Blood" mobile app. For details, please visit www5.ha.org.hk/rcbts/mobile-app.