Aalam- the philanthropic arm of Chennai Cyclists is conducting its biannual Blood Donation Drive on Sunday, July 14, from 9 am to 1.45 pm, at the Government Hospital- Chromepet and at the Institute of Child Health, Egmore.
This initiative mobilises blood donors in an effort to improve the blood bank reserves at these public hospitals that serve patients from various socio-economic backgrounds. Blood banks across Chennai are in great need of donors and therefore this blood donation drive is of huge significance to the blood banks and patients
A number of runners groups from across Chennai city are also supporting this initiative and participating in the blood donation drive.
Some benefits of Donating blood:
- By going to donate blood, you are getting a mini-master Health check-up!
- Before you are allowed to donate, your vital signs will be checked to make sure you are fit enough for the procedure. You get to know your BP levels, Haemoglobin and other parameters
- In addition, you’ll be screened for infectious diseases you may be unaware of
- The health screening will also reveal if you have a rare blood type
- This information can be useful if you ever face surgery or another medical situation in which a transfusion may be required. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing your donation is particularly needed
- Regular blood donation is linked to lower blood pressure and a lower risk for heart attacks
- It definitely helps to reduce cardiovascular risk factors
- If your haemoglobin is too high, blood donation helps to lower the viscosity of the blood, which has been associated with the formation of blood clots, heart attacks, and stroke
- One blood donation can save up to three lives
- People usually donate because it feels good to help others, and altruism and volunteering have been linked to positive health outcomes, including a lower risk for depression and greater longevity
- Giving blood is a way to engage in the immediate community and help people around you. People who do these types of things and engage in their community in this way tend to have better health and longer lives
Added bonus: A calorie-free snack For one blood donation, it takes your body about 500 calories to replace it. Thus, the juice and/or biscuits you’re offered after giving blood are a “zero-calorie snack! Eat without guilt!!
Those who are interested to donate may please contact the organisers at 9789982110 or 9750975070, Alternatively, interested donor may directly go to the venue between said hours for blood donation and contact the Aalam volunteers who will be present at the blood bank to guide you on the donation process.
