SHILLONG: In response to the appeal of Regional Blood Bank at Pasteur Institute, Lawmali, the members of Rotary Club of Orchid City Shillong, their children and well-wishers donated blood on Saturday.
Orchid City said this is a “small gesture” to appreciate the work of the health workers and their departments and to let them know that they are with them and will win the battle against COVID-19 together.
The Rotary members decided to donate blood to address the shortage during the pandemic.
The Regional Blood Bank, Pasteur Institute, had appealed to all voluntary blood donors and organisations to come forward and donate blood.
With the outbreak of pandemic resulting in lockdown coupled with traffic and travel restrictions, it has become difficult for voluntary donors to come forward. Orchid City Rotary has urged citizens and organisations to voluntarily come forward to donate blood.
The blood bank at the Institute is adhering to all recommendations as per the National Blood Transfusion Council guidelines. Social distancing norms, infection control guidelines and proper disposal of biomedical wastes have been observed at the institute. Orchid City Rotary president Pradeep Pillai informed that all donors were provided with hand sanitisers and masks.
Dr Judita Syiemlieh, the director of service projects of the club, led the members in making their donations.
Rotarians Sahil Singhla, Anthony War Nongbri, Priam Dkhar and their family members donated blood as well.
Orchid City has extended gratitude to Dr SS Nongbri, joint director health services cum surgeon superintendent Civil Hospital Shillong, Dr Isaac Syiem and Dr P Pakma of Civil Hospital for visiting the Pasteur Institute during the blood donation camp of the club. It also thanked Dr Charis Budnah, the doctors and staff of the institute. Voluntary donors can contact Pasteur Institute.