A growing community of women in the UAE is making a significant impact by leading the way in blood donation. Inspired by dedicated regular donors, these women, affiliated with the non-profit Blood Donors Kerala (BDK) – UAE and the Women’s Happiness and Social Welfare Group, are encouraging others to join their noble cause.
Archana Sasidharan, a committed volunteer with BDK, has been donating blood every 57 days for seven years. She emphasized that donating blood has become a way of life for her and her fellow volunteers. With a separate ladies wing boasting around 30 active members, Archana shared, “Our aim is to motivate other women like us to step in when there is a requirement.”
Sunitha, the BDK coordinator in Abu Dhabi, highlighted the health benefits associated with regular blood donation. She expressed, “By donating blood regularly, I know that my own blood circulation improves, and I am at lesser risk of an arterial blockage.”
Sheeba Nazar, a volunteer from the Women’s Happiness and Social Welfare Group, explained how their group transitioned from a travel-focused community to advocates for blood donation. She noted, “The practice of blood donation not only helps those in critical need of it but also provides physical and mental benefits to the donor. It gives them a sense of purpose and emotional well-being, besides enabling them to reduce stress.”
Nazar, now a regular donor, drew parallels between the uplifting nature of travel and the transformative impact of blood donation on individuals. She encouraged everyone eligible to consider becoming a donor and to inspire family members to do the same.
Highlighting the eligibility criteria, Sasidharan emphasized that besides being a UAE resident with the necessary documentation (Emirates ID), donors must meet specific health conditions. Certain medical histories, cosmetic procedures, and recent travel may temporarily disqualify potential donors. Pregnant and lactating women are also ineligible to donate.
Restrictions related to travel history have been outlined by the Dubai Blood Donation Centre, requiring donors with recent travel to defer their donation by specific periods. Despite these constraints, dedicated donors often go the extra mile, volunteering to donate blood in their home country during vacations. This growing community of women in the UAE is not only saving lives through blood donation but also creating a positive ripple effect, inspiring more women to join this impactful mission.