THE EDITOR, Madam:
THIS IS an appeal from the heart, to all citizens of Jamaica. You are the holders of a very precious and priceless life-giving commodity - blood, for which there is yet no substitute.
Have you ever stopped to think what would happen if one fateful day a serious accident or illness should befall you or any of your close relatives and there was no blood available to save that life? And don't think that you could just mobilize a few friends at the time to make some donations, as it just does not work that way! When required, blood must be administered immediately, and this has to be supplied from a pool of the duly tested and prepared commodity.
It is frightening to think that for a country with such frequent trauma cases we would ever see the day when our national blood supply ran dry -- but it did happen - right in the week of Christmas 2000! What a shame! - a serious indictment on the part of both the State and the citizenry of this land.
Why blame the State? Simply because, as guardian of the people's health, the State ought to be more proactive. For example, it could launch an effective public education campaign to sensitise individuals about this precious commodity and the need for them to contribute. You will agree that a major attribute of the blood shortage is the unfounded fear of contracting diseases through blood donation/transfusion, and the public should be told loud and clear that there is no need for worry.
In addition, the citizens need to be made aware of the quantity of blood needed each day/year, what is actually donated, and the inherent dangers of a 'stock-out'.
The State, through the Blood Bank, could also visit and appeal to groups such as church congregations, business places and other venues where there is a high concentration of organized individuals, to sell their message. What about the option of opening the collection centres beyond normal work hours - has any study been done of the feasibility of this move?
The citizens of the country must also bear their share of responsibility for this dilemma, e.g. by stopping the wanton shooting, stabbing and chopping of each other thus relieving the strain on our already meagre health resources.
Most importantly, we as citizens need to give. Give blood. The unit of blood that you give today is fully replenished by your body within a few weeks. A trip to a blood collection centre won't cost you an hour. All the material used is sterile and is unsealed right before your eyes.
Significantly, I have found the overall operation at the Blood Bank to be very efficient. Their records are computerized, accurate and up-to-date. Most of all, I find their staff to be quite courteous and helpful. I have been voluntarily donating blood since 1990 and am happy about it.
One word of warning though. If you know that you fall in any of the high-risk categories such as homosexuals, multiple sex partners, intravenous drug users or STD patients, don't bother to waste the State's time and money by attempting to donate; let's keep it a safe and reliable process.
Give today; the life you save could be your very own.
I am etc,
EDWARD MORRIS
32 South Monticello Crescent
Spanish Town
