Some donors have been giving blood for decades. Others rolled up their sleeves for the very first time.
At this year’s World Blood Donor Day ceremony, we spoke to individuals from all walks of life to find out why they donate and what keeps them coming back. From heartfelt moments to funny confessions, these are the voices supporting Singapore’s blood supply.
Perhaps one of their stories will inspire your journey.
Meet Our Blood Donors 🩸
Lee Swee Kam, 63
157 donations, Medal for Life Award Recipient
“When I was 17, my dad had an emergency surgery and needed a blood transfusion. It hit me then, the significance of blood donation, and I’ve been a blood donor ever since. I just want to help as many people as I can. If it’s in my ability to give, then why not?”
To new donors:
“Just take the first step and experience it for yourself. There’s a massive need for blood in this world, and your single donation can make a difference in someone’s life.”
James Lim, World Mission Society Church of God
Adopt a Bloodbank Award Recipient
“Being healthy enough to donate is a blessing. It’s the simplest way to do our part and give someone else a fighting chance at living a better life.”
Sandy, 42
9th donation
What is your pre-donation routine?
“Give me a few push-ups! It pops your veins out and makes the donation a breeze.”
Mohamed Salleh, 59
More than 25 donations
Favourite post-donation snacks?
“Milo and biscuits!”
Aye Thu Khin, 37
5th donation
Describe blood donation in three words.
“Happy to donate!”
Joe, 54
37th donation
What would you say to encourage people to donate blood?
“Donating blood is doing good and at the end of the day, all good things will come back to you.”
Chan Chiew Yong, 59
49th donation
Why do you donate blood?
“It feels good to save lives and it means I’m still healthy!”
Jeremy, 33
3rd donation
What about blood donation surprised you most?
“It’s not as complicated or painful as I thought. In fact, it’s painless. It’s also more accessible than I anticipated because of the many locations to donate blood.”
Daniel, 24 and Henry, 31
5th and 15th donation
Driven by their love for their mother who needed blood transfusions, these two brothers stepped up and became regular donors themselves.
What’s your advice for first time donors?
“Don’t be afraid, be courageous. It’s refreshing to donate blood!”
May Chew, 63
More than 20 donations
What is your reason for donating?
“A few years ago, I had a surgery and needed blood. So it’s time to do my part and give back to society.”
Thamaraidas, 38
3rd donation
Finish this sentence: I donate because…
“I donate because I can help people through my contribution.”
Ricky, 30
11th donation
What drives you to donate?
“I see donating blood as a personal milestone. Not everyone can do it but I can, so I feel like I should.”
Kah Hwee, 29
5th donation
What keeps you coming back as a donor?
“I find it meaningful that my blood can save three lives.”
Shridhar, 20
First time donor
He originally wanted to sign up as a volunteer at World Blood Donor Day, but was told that the slots were filled. So Shridhar decided to roll up his sleeve and donate blood instead.
How did you prepare for your first donation?
“I made sure to get a solid 8 hours of sleep and a hearty breakfast!”
Mr Chan, 39 and Mr Wong, 64
3rd and 1st donation
When Mr Wong was watching the evening news, it was an interview with a young girl donating blood that finally inspired him to step up. Accompanied by his supportive friend, Mr Chan, they made their donations together at the mobile blood drive at World Blood Donor Day, marking the milestone.
What would you say to first time donors?
“Don’t be afraid, donating blood isn’t painful. Just come and give it a try. If a young girl can do it, so can you!”
Fuad Hasan, 37 and Luqyana, 33
1st and 2nd donation in Singapore
This husband-and-wife duo brought their son along to donate blood at this year’s World Blood Donor Day. Though it was only their first and second time giving blood here in Singapore, they have already donated multiple times in Indonesia and China!
What does being a regular blood donor mean to you?
“It feels good to know that we are healthy enough to donate, and that we are contributing to the community.”
James Tan, 36
20th donation
Our volunteer photographer for the day also rolled up his sleeves to donate!
Sum up your blood donation experience in a sentence:
“The entire experience was very smooth and comfortable, thanks to the incredibly gentle and professional staff at the mobile blood drive.”
Thank You, Donors
Every blood donor has their own reason for giving. But at the end of the day, it is all for one shared purpose: to help ensure patients have the blood they need, when they need it.
To every donor who continues to make a difference, thank you for being part of this lifesaving community.
Happy World Blood Donor Day.
Photos by volunteer photographers, James Tan and Teo Poh Yin