Aspire Zone Foundation employees participate in blood donation campaign

In an attempt to increase the blood supply in Qatar and raise awareness of the ongoing need for blood donors, the drive was held at Aspire Zone on February 21. Many employees visited the donation unit throughout the day to give blood.

AZF President Mr. Hilal Al Kuwari said, "Giving blood is a great way to contribute to society and celebrate the gift of life. We are absolutely delighted with the turnout today and would like to say a big thank-you to each and every person who donated."

"The combined effort of our employees is a testament to the company's shared values and beliefs of serving the wider community," Mr. Al Kuwari added.

The campaign attracted employees from all over AZF, with employees from AZF's member organizations - Aspire Academy, Aspetar, and Aspire Logistics - flocking to the donation caravan from as early as 8am.

"Giving to people that we know nothing about except that they need blood to survive is an inspiring human experience. It's one of the most beautiful aspects of the Qatari culture, which teaches us to be grateful for the good health God has given us," commented Tahani Al Suweidi, an employee in the Public Relations department at AZF.

"I was nervous at first as I hadn't donated blood before, but the campaign was really well-organized by Aspire and I enjoyed the experience. I'm very much looking forward to repeating it in the future," she added.

Meanwhile, Ahmed Omran, a translator at AZF, expressed his disappointment at not being able to donate his blood - especially as he is of the rare AB blood type - having undergone cupping therapy 'Hejama' recently.

"Though I am sad I couldn't participate in an act that will take only a few moments of my time but could save a life, I found it reassuring that the doctors on hand are taking precautionary measures with the donors," he said, explaining that he was asked to wait six months before donating as cupping can affect the quality of the blood.

There is a severe shortage of blood supplies available and donating is crucial for helping to save lives. Since blood cannot be manufactured and there is no artificial substitute for blood, donation remains the only way of obtaining blood to supply to those who desperately need it.

Just one pint of blood from a donor can help save up to three lives. Each procedure took less than 15 minutes to complete and was overseen by the staff of HMC.

AZF actively backs a variety of social development initiatives ranging from UN-backed youth leadership camps to installation of free gym equipment for public use to diabetes camps all year round as part of its on-going CSR strategy to encourage healthy and active lifestyles.