Eighty-six volunteers from ExxonMobil PNG (EMPNG) donated a record of 70 bags of blood during the Corporate Blood Drive (CBD) yesterday at ExxonMobil PNG's headquarters in Port Moresby.
CBD co-ordinator, Anna Megueria said the blood bank is often running short on blood, as a country, PNG collects around 20 percent of the annual blood requirement from external contributors, the balance come from family members on a "just-in-time" basis.
“The blood stock levels are particularly low during the times when high schools and colleges are closed for holidays and during such periods we encourage more corporate organisations and their staff to donate blood," she said.
"Blood cannot be manufactured, it can only come from the kind generosity of volunteer blood donors and we thank EMPNG for their timely donation."
Often blood donors are disqualified due to low iron levels, particularly in women therefore to ensure the donors blood is in good condition and can save as many lives as possible, volunteers are advised to eat a balanced, healthy diet and iron rich foods such as lean meats, egg, broccoli, potatoes, raisins and watermelon.
"Iron is an important dietary mineral that is involved in various bodily functions, including the transport of oxygen in the blood," Megueria said.
EMPNG Managing Director, Andrew Barry said people's lives are saved by blood provided through the selfless deeds of volunteers.
"We are thrilled to be part of the drive to make a positive difference in the lives of others and we thank our donors who have given lifesaving blood," Andrew said.
The annual CBD is an initiative of the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) and is targeted at the corporate community, to donate much needed blood bank supply.
Last year's CBD collected a total of 1200 bags from companies in the airline, automotive, banking and professional services.
The blood bags collected will then go to the blood bank and be distributed to hospitals around the country.
The benefits of repeated blood donations-helps blood to flow better, reduce viscosity, and reduces arterial blockages.
Donate blood – "every drop counts".