SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, has launched the “Donate and Celebrate Your 18th Birthday with the Blood Bank” initiative through SEHA Blood Bank Services. The campaign encourages young adults to mark their 18th birthday by making their first blood donation and supporting a safe, sustainable blood supply across the UAE.
Young adults aged 18 to 25 currently account for approximately 15% of SEHA Blood Bank Services’ donor base. Through this initiative, SEHA aims to build on growing interest among younger generations and encourage eligible individuals to make blood donation a regular habit.
The initiative recently recognised Omer Elfatih, who celebrated his 18th birthday by donating blood for the first time. SEHA marked the occasion with a small celebration and presented him with a certificate of appreciation for turning a personal milestone into an act of community service.
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Dr. Eiman Ahmed Al Zaabi, Blood Bank Medical Director at SEHA Blood Bank Services, said: “Encouraging individuals to donate blood as soon as they become eligible is key to building a sustainable and reliable blood supply. Initiatives such as ‘Donate and Celebrate Your 18th Birthday’ help introduce the value of giving from a young age and encourage young adults to develop regular donation habits, supporting our ability to meet the needs of patients across the UAE.”
Dr Eiman Ahmed Al Zaabi highlighted the importance of encouraging people to donate as soon as they become eligible. Regular donations help maintain a reliable supply of blood and blood components for patients requiring emergency care, surgery and ongoing medical treatment.
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Reflecting on this experience, Omer said: “On my 18th birthday, I chose not to receive a gift, but to give one. Donating blood for the first time felt like a meaningful way to celebrate and make a difference. I hope other young people will consider making blood donation part of their own milestones and continue giving in the years ahead.”
Through the campaign, SEHA hopes to raise awareness of blood donation among young people and inspire more eligible donors to participate. Young adults are encouraged to learn about donation requirements and available SEHA Blood Bank Services locations and consider making their first donation part of their 18th birthday celebration.
