Encourage students to give blood
Schools should encourage students to give blood during their teenage years.
Hong Kong's education system is heavily subsidised by the city's taxpayers, making it possible for everyone to get an education. Giving blood is a way of giving something back to society.
Red Cross allows Hong Kong citizens to donate blood when they turn 16. I think this is a good way to start to take the responsibility as a Hong Kong citizen.
Taking responsibility early in life makes us more confident when we become adults and have to adjust to a working environment.
Your blood will save somebody's life. Donating blood is slightly painful, but definitely worthwhile.
Eric Wong
From the Editor
Thanks for your letter, Eric. Giving blood is such a small sacrifice to make to save someone's life. It is a shame that you always see people rushing to give blood in times of disaster, but they forget the blood bank needs a steady supply all the time. If your blood type is rare, it is more important for you to be a donor.
Human blood is used to save people who have been in accidents, need surgery or are suffering from cancer. It can also be used for research purposes. There is no danger in giving blood. The blood collectors use sterile needles and your body makes up the blood lost over the next few weeks.
It certainly is a good idea for schools to become involved in blood drives as this allows students the opportunity to give something to society. It also instils in students the habit of donating blood that hopefully will carry over into their adult lives. Susan, Editor
