YANGON, June 14 (Xinhua) -- On World Blood Donor Day, which falls on June 14, blood donors gathered at the National Blood Center in Yangon from as early as 8 a.m. local time, joining hands to support the life-saving act of blood donation.
Among the early donors was 61-year-old Thein Shwe, who has been donating blood since the age of 18. "I donate once every four months and have donated 85 times so far," he said proudly. "Knowing that my blood can save someone in an emergency makes it all worth it."
Thein Shwe emphasized that donating blood is not only an act of compassion but also a way to maintain his health.
"To donate, I must stay healthy, so I take care of myself. Some people are afraid of needles, but it's just a brief moment, like an ant bite," he said.
"Having a national blood center is a blessing, and it serves as a bridge between donors and patients who need urgent help," he added.
To honor the occasion, companies and organizations contributed by offering free food, drinks, and iron supplements to donors.
Htun Min Latt, marketing manager at Arr Thit Man Company Limited, shared that 170 employees from their company donated blood this year.
"This is our ninth time participating in World Blood Donor Day," he said, adding that they provided donors with soy milk, iron supplements, and small gifts, and they deeply appreciate everyone who donates to help those in urgent need.
Thiri May, 25, an employee of Arr Thit Man Company Limited, joined the donation drive. "Our office organizes this every year, and since my birthday is coming up, I wanted to do something meaningful. So, I am here," she said.
"When I was young, I had dengue fever and urgently needed blood. It was very hard to find it at the time. Luckily, I received it just in time, and I survived. That experience stayed with me. I donate now so others won't have to face what I did," she added.
For Thiha Ye Thu, 34, this was his 25th donation. "My father donated blood over 90 times and inspired me to follow in his path. He always told me that if we're healthy, we should help others," he said.
"Before donating, we need to rest well and avoid things like surgery or dental work. Last year, the bank urgently needed B-type blood, and I happened to match. I donated, and it felt like I was filling a gap. That made me really proud," he added.
Meanwhile, Aung Zin Myo, 30, said, "I donate once a year. It feels great to know I can help someone with just a bit of my time and health."
"But we can't donate whenever we want. Our iron levels and overall health must meet the criteria. Some colleagues couldn't donate today, and that made me realize how valuable and important it is. It doesn't cost anything, but it can save someone's life," he said.
The theme for World Blood Donor Day 2025 is "Give blood, give hope: together we save lives." ■