Thousands join blood donation festival in Can Tho

The event was held jointly by Can Tho Red Cross Society and the National Institute of Haematology and Blood Transfusion in response to the National Blood Donation Program known as ‘Red Journey 2019’.

Through the blood donation festival, the city's Red Cross Society aims to build a culture among communities where saving the lives of patients is prioritised.

This can be done by increasing the number of voluntary blood donors and spreading more information about genetic blood diseases, particularly with regard to thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder that can lead to heart failure and liver problems.

The program will also contribute to raising public awareness about voluntary blood donation and safe blood transfusion.

Huynh Thanh Thao, President of the city Red Cross Society, said this year’s festival has attracted a large number of students and youth union members from the city as it is being held immediately after the National High School Exam has ended.

She added that the festival has upheld the spirit of compassion among young people and contributed to further spreading the blood donation movement.

Over 1,100 units of blood are expected to be collected on June 28 in Can Tho city, surpassing the target of 800 units of blood which was set by the “Red Journey 2019’ campaign for each locality.

The same day, representatives from the city’s Red Cross Society and the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam paid a visit and presented gifts to thalassemia patients facing challenging circumstances at the Can Tho Hospital of Hematology and Blood Transfusion.