What was a spontaneous visit to a mobile blood drive turned into a lifelong journey shaped by friendship, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. To date, Mr Roger Tan Zhow Yeow, 41, has made 132 donations and is committed to keep giving.

For Mr Roger Tan Zhow Yeow, blood donation was not something he planned for. It began with a flyer, half an hour to spare, and the idea of doing good.

While waiting for his friend, he was approached by a volunteer at the nearby mobile blood drive, asking if he had 30 minutes to spare. At the time, he agreed without thinking too much about it.

“What surprised me most was the warmth and love from the staff. They took the time to explain everything and make sure I felt comfortable with the process”

More than two decades later, Roger still keeps a framed photograph of his first donation on his desk — a reminder of his commitment to keep giving.

Belonging to a Lifesaver Community

Over time, the bloodbank stopped feeling like just a donation centre.

“Whenever I return, the staff will say, ‘Roger, you are back.’ It makes me feel valued and appreciated, like a family member to them.”

As he continued his donations, Roger slowly transitioned to apheresis donation at the encouragement of another friend. While initially worried about the longer donation time, knowing that his donations help critically ill patients motivates him to keep going.

Over the years, Roger’s commitment to donating blood has also become something his family takes pride in.

During one Chinese New Year gathering, he recalled his aunt telling his nephew, “This uncle is very great because he donates blood often. Maybe you can also do the same next time.”

Hearing this is not only an encouragement, but an affirmation that he is leading by example.

Keepsakes You Can’t Buy

This year, his long-standing commitment was recognised with the Diamond Award at the World Blood Donor Day.

While grateful for the recognition, the most meaningful part of the journey has always been knowing that his giving was making a difference in the lives of others.

“With the understanding of who my blood can help, I am more assured of the good work that I am doing.”

Through the years, he has also built an unusual collection of over a hundred stress balls at home — all gathered from his donations.

“People always ask where I bought them and my answer has always been: You can’t buy them, they’re earned.”

To Roger, each stress ball is more than just a keepsake. It is a reminder of the friendships, encouragement, and community that have kept him coming back for more than 20 years.