Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The International Medical Center (IMC) recently organized a two-day blood donation drive under the theme “Our Blood for Protectors of Our Nation” on the occasion of the Kingdom’s 89th National Day.

The blood drive was inaugurated by Dr. Walid Fitaihi, IMC CEO who was the first to donate blood. Dr. Fitaihi said that the drive expresses people’s gratitude, pride, and appreciation for our brave soldiers. It is, he stressed, part of citizens’ duty to appreciate the great efforts and sacrifices of the soldiers who protect the Saudi borders, adding that the initiative comes in line with IMC’s social responsibility program as well. Eighty-nine people participated in the drive along with IMC staff who donated their blood too.

“This initiative reflects IMC objectives to enhance the Saudi identity and meet our responsibilities toward our valiant soldiers and their sacrifices to protect our nation. I had an overwhelming feeling when I launched the blood drive and donated blood to the soldiers who bear a great responsibility to protect all of us,” he pointed out.

It is also part of all citizens’ duty as human beings to donate blood to the soldiers. The IMC will not hesitate to provide the members of the military with everything it can for the soldiers who have shown a great magnitude of courage and patience and above all have made great sacrifices to ensure that the Kingdom’s borders and the sanctity of the holy places are safeguarded. The soldiers’ sacrifices are greatly appreciated by all Saudi citizens, he said.

Dr. Fitaihi called for promoting and supporting such blood drives and similar volunteer campaigns to maximize their efficiencies and increase the supply of blood banks in hospitals and the healthcare sector, and most importantly underscoring the importance of volunteer works that serve both citizens and the country.