National Association of Akwa Ibom Medical Students Worldwide voluntarily donate blood to patients in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital as it is said that blood is one of the most priceless gifts one can give to another.
Assistant Director Medical Laboratory Services and Head Blood Donation, Mrs. Akanimo Idiong said the blood drive was prompted by the frequent need of blood by patients and since blood cannot be bought, this called for the need for blood donation sensitization that led to the association’s decision to donate blood.
Clearing the air on the misconception that donated blood are sold to patients, Mrs Idiong said that blood is not paid for, but what patients pay for is the blood screening and consumables used to store the blood.
She also said that donated blood stored in the blood bank can last up to 35 days after which if not used is discarded as it becomes expired.
