“I was 19 years old at the time. Nervous, scared and emotionally overwhelmed.”

When my mother was undergoing cancer treatment, she required blood for the next stage of her medical procedure.

I was 19 years old at the time. Nervous, scared and emotionally overwhelmed. Everything felt uncertain. But when I found out she needed blood, I decided to step forward and donate for her.

I had to go in alone for the donation process, which made me even more anxious. During the initial screening, I learned about the eligibility criteria. Donors must be at least 18 years old, meet the minimum weight requirement, have a healthy haemoglobin level and must not have gotten a tattoo or piercing in the past few months due to infection risks. I also learned that blood donation can typically be done once every three months. Understanding these guidelines made me realize how carefully the entire process is managed for donors.

The medical staff was extremely supportive and patient. They explained every step, reassured me and made sure I was comfortable throughout. The donation itself was smooth and much less intimidating than I had imagined.

After it was over, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief and pride. In a moment when I felt completely helpless about my mother’s condition, donating blood made me feel like I was contributing in a meaningful way.

They gave me a pack of fruit juice and biscuits afterwards. It was a small gesture but one that has stayed in my memory. Because of the strength I discovered in myself that day.

That experience changed me. It taught me that even in our most vulnerable moments, we are capable of courage.