Their generosity in giving their time demonstrates that the greatest gift you can give saves lives, is free and only requires a small moment out of your day.
As Phuket enters its busy tourist season, this is a timely reminder that the demand for blood inevitably increases due to road accidents and medical emergencies.
Particularly Rhesus-negative blood, which is extremely rare in Thailand. It is present in only about 0.3% of the Thai population compared to 15% in Western populations.
This presents serious challenges for both Thais and foreigners who may urgently need this blood type. To meet these needs, Vachira hospital conducts regular blood drives to save lives within the community.
If you are considering becoming a donor, please first confirm your blood type and check whether you are eligible to donate. There are some age, lifestyle and health restrictions which can be found online. Importantly, those who lived in the UK during the 1980s and 1990s are now eligible to donate blood in Thailand.
Sue Ultmann, an Australian long-term resident in Phuket, is a testament to the importance of blood donation. A regular donor herself, she became critically ill five years ago and required life-saving transfusions of red blood cells and platelets.
Thanks to the generosity of donors in Thailand and the care provided by the Vachira Hospital, Sue is here today to share her story.
Mobile blood donation units hold regular drives at locations throughout Phuket. Please contact the Vachira hospital for details of upcoming donation opportunities.
Don’t wait, become a blood donor and save lives. Like Sue, you or your loved ones may one day be the one in need.
The Blood Bank on the 4th floor of the outpatient building at Vachira Phuket Hospital, on Yaowarat Rd in Phuket Town, is listed as “always open” For more information: Tel: 076-361234 ext 1287; or visit Facebook: ธนาคารเลือด รพ.วชิระภูเก็ต (Vachira Phuket Hospital Blood Bank)