Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, February 11, 2023 [Ministry of Health]:Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Dr. Hon. Terrance Drew and members of his cabinet made a powerful statement about the importance of blood donation by visiting the National Blood Bank to donate blood.
The Prime Minister, and Minister of Health, has long been a strong advocate for blood donation. A medical doctor by training, the Prime Minister took the time to encourage all citizens and residents to follow his lead and give blood to help save lives.
“Blood donation is a simple, yet life-saving act that can make a huge impact on our communities,” said the Prime Minister. “It’s an honor to be able to give back to those in need and I encourage all my fellow citizens and residents of the Federation to join me in this effort.”
Accompanied by cabinet members; Hon. Konris Maynard; Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke; Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Marcus Natta, the group rolled up their sleeves and donated blood, setting an example for others to follow. The act of donating blood not only helps to save the lives of those in need but also serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back to our communities.
“As a community, we have a responsibility to help each other in our times of need. Giving blood is a wonderful way to give back to our communities and help save a life,” said Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Sharon Archibald. “It’s a short procedure and I encourage everyone to find the time to give and become a lifesaver.”
“We are thrilled to have the Prime Minister and his cabinet visit the National Blood Bank to donate blood,” said Dr. Jenson Morton, Director of Health Institutions. “Their support will help raise awareness about the critical need for blood donations and encourage more people to get involved.”
The visit kicks off a national blood drive that will see both public and private partners take up the challenge of becoming blood donors. Each month a new group will share the responsibility of donating. Presently over thirteen groups have signed up to be a part of the blood drive. The expected outcome of which is a steady and reliable supply of blood and related blood products for the nation’s blood bank.
One blood donation can save up to three lives, and while blood is a perishable product, the demand for blood never takes a break.
For more information on blood donation kindly contact the Ministry of Health, J.N.F. General Hospital or the National Blood Bank.
Let’s all do our part to help save lives and give the gift of life through blood donation.
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