On World Blood Donors Day, we highlight the inspiring story of Ram Bangad, a man driven by a tragic incident to establish a movement promoting blood donation. With a personal commitment to donating blood and a unique network of 50,000 donors across 15 states in India, Bangad’s Raktache Naate Trust has become a lifeline for those in need. This year’s World Blood Donor Day theme, “Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often,” aligns perfectly with the remarkable efforts of Bangad and his trust.
Creating a Network and Encouraging Donation: Motivated by the loss of a young girl due to a lack of immediate blood availability, Bangad established a network to address the urgent need for blood donations. Through his network, he can quickly identify donors in specific regions, ensuring timely assistance for patients. In addition to conducting donation camps at pilgrimage centers, Bangad has organized a WhatsApp group of 200 individuals with the rare Bombay blood group, facilitating blood donations across the country.
Pune’s Active Role and Collaborative Efforts: Pune, known for its active involvement in the field of blood donation, has witnessed the positive impact of Bangad’s work. In critical situations, such as a recent case involving a woman with a rare Bombay blood group requiring surgery, Bangad’s trust played a crucial role in arranging suitable donors. Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, the city’s blood banks have managed to sustain their collections and meet the ongoing demand for blood components.
The Ongoing Need for Voluntary Donors: While Pune boasts 45 blood centers, including those in hospitals and standalone facilities, the need for voluntary donors remains essential. Regular blood, platelet, granulocyte, and stem cell donations are crucial in saving lives. The recent rise in organ transplant procedures further emphasizes the importance of having an adequate supply of NAT tested leucodepleted blood components.
Future Outlook and Continued Support: With the resumption of organ transplant surgeries and the anticipation of more such procedures, the demand for blood components continues to grow. The efforts of individuals like Ram Bangad and the collective support of voluntary donors are invaluable in meeting these demands. It is crucial for more individuals to embrace the spirit of blood donation and contribute to this life-saving cause.
On World Blood Donors Day, we salute Ram Bangad and his Raktache Naate Trust for their unwavering commitment to promoting blood donation and building a strong network of donors. Their inspiring work serves as a reminder of the importance of donating blood, plasma, and other blood components to save lives. Let us join hands in sharing the gift of life through regular donations and support organizations that facilitate this critical service.
