Lifeblood of foreign climes

On business trips, my work is interesting and my colleagues often become friends.

It seems only fair to give something back. Whenever possible, I leave something of myself behind - my blood. My experience as a regular donor in Australia pales in comparison with the satisfaction of donating blood overseas.

It started when I noticed an appeal for tourist blood donations at Kantha Bopha children's hospital in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The facility relies on foreign financial aid garnered by its charismatic Swiss founder, Beat Richner. To gain support for the hospital, he performs cello concerts during which he asks young tourists for blood, older tourists for money, and the ones in between for both.
Digital Pass $1 for first 28 Days

I was warmly welcomed at the hospital. The procedure was clinically perfect and I was humbled to receive a gift bag of T-shirt, biscuits, drinks and vitamin tablets. I've donated blood on three subsequent visits to Cambodia.

In Manhattan, I sought out the Red Cross blood bank. After passport identification and a medical questionnaire, the process was slick. The clinic was have-a-nice-day cheery. Friendly staff and donors highlighted another benefit of donating - chatting to locals over healthy snacks and juices. Back on the streets, I felt pleased to have done something so useful in less than an hour.

In Mumbai, while my colleague attended a hospital appointment, I donated blood. The practice in India is for a patient's family members to donate blood. A random donation from a foreigner is unusual and I was treated like a heroine. The blood bank boss explained that my donation would be acknowledged by a certificate of appreciation and the next day a placard worthy of framing was duly delivered to my hotel. It doesn't always go smoothly.

In Barcelona, I found a blood bank in the magnificent World Heritage-listed art nouveau Hospital de la Santa Creu, but the staff didn't speak English and I was unable to donate.

In this era of mass-tourism, let's be more aware of what we can give, as well as money. Donating blood can enrich your experience and contribute to the lifeblood of another country.

RANT OR RAVE
Send your 400-word contribution to our Follow the Reader column. Published columnists will receive a Shopgirl Throw About Picnic Blanket, a lightweight, cotton-rich top and water-resistant nylon-backed rug that is machine washable and durable. Available in six colour/design options; $55. More: shopgirl.com.au. Send your contribution to: [email protected].

Sourced: theaustralian