Charmaine Tan had some big shoes to fill. With both her parents being regular blood donors,  giving was more than a good deed to her — it was a family tradition that Charmaine fought hard to continue.

Growing up, Charmaine often accompanied her parents to their donation appointments and fell asleep to stories told by her father of how each bag could save three lives. While simple, these powerful facts stuck with her — and inspired her to want to be just like them when she was old enough. Thus, the moment Charmaine turned 16, she headed straight for the blood bank, eager to follow in her parents’ footsteps. However, things didn’t go as planned. 

It Was Not in Vein

“The nurses told me that my vein wasn’t quite ready yet, it was too small. I was a little disappointed, but they gave me advice on how to strengthen my veins.  I also make sure to take iron pills a week before and after each donation, so I’m in the best condition to give.”

Instead of giving up, Charmaine took their advice and incorporated weight lifting and resistance band exercises into her daily routine to prepare herself for the next opportunity. 

That chance came during Ho-Ho-Hope, her first volunteer event with the Singapore Red Cross. 

“I decided to try again, and, this time, I was successful! I was finally able to donate my first bag of blood.”

You’d think that growing up with veteran blood donors would remove all fear but Charmaine admitted to feeling the usual pangs of anxiety that first-time donors experience. 

“I was really afraid of the entire process. But the volunteers and nurses were amazing. They constantly reassured me, made me feel comfortable, and walked me through everything. The blood bank felt so warm and homely, it helped calm my fears.”

Tis the Season to Give

Since that first experience, Charmaine has continued to donate blood regularly, carefully planning her donations around school holidays. 

“While it’s just an hour of my time, it could mean the rest of someone’s life. That’s what keeps me going, it’s my way of giving back to the community in a meaningful way. If you’re thinking about donating blood but feel scared, I promise it’s not as painful or scary as it seems. The process is quick but the impact is huge!”

Inspired by Charmaine, her friends have also begun showing interest in giving. As a blood donor herself, she is now able to share her own experience with her friends, answering the questions she once asked her parents.

“Recently, I accompanied a friend to her first donation. It was really meaningful. We bonded and gave back at the same time!”

“Thank you to my parents for being my inspiration, and to the amazing volunteers and nurses who supported me on my journey. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”

Written by Dhira Deka, Volunteer Writer
Edited by Eunice Sng, Marketing and Communications