India: Goa Community unites for Blood Donation Drive in memory of Aleixinho B. Gracias

In loving memory of the late Mr. Aleixinho B. Gracias, the Fr. Faustino D’Souza Social Service Institute, Divya Gyan, and Caring Souls Goa, in collaboration with South Goa District Hospital (Hospicio), Margao, organized a half-day Blood Donation Camp on August 17, at Nirmala Convent, Mastimol, Canacona, Goa.

The event was spearheaded by Sr. Crina Cardoso SFN, is a dedicated social worker and directress of the Divya Gyan Social Service Centre, with the support of Mrs. Priya Gracias.

The camp's primary goal was to save lives while raising awareness and encouraging the community to donate blood. “Many people face critical situations due to the unavailability of blood.

This camp aims to educate and assist the poor and marginalized,” said Sr. Cadoso, emphasizing the camp's dual focus on saving lives and community service.

The event began with a prayer and lighting of the lamp, invoking God’s blessings. The Divya Gyan Social Service Centre (DGSSC) staff welcomed the collaborators and extended heartfelt gratitude to those who made the day a success, including Mrs. Gracias for her financial support.

The camp saw a positive turnout, with over 50 individuals stepping forward to donate, although 20 were unable to meet the requirements.

Among the donors were a mix of youth and middle-aged participants, each motivated by the desire to make a difference. Hanse Fernandes, a first-time Palolem donor, said, "I came freely, and it brings me joy knowing I could save someone’s life."

Binny Fernandes, a second-time donor, was equally enthusiastic, sharing how donating blood made her feel proud to contribute to such a vital cause.

Pasly Pereira, another first-time donor from Talpona, initially faced some apprehension but was relieved when the process was painless.

“I always wanted to donate blood but never took the step until today. I’m really happy I did,” said Pereira.

Simon Fernandes, former chairman and present Councillor of Canacona Municipality, commended the ongoing efforts of Sr. Crina and the DGSSC in their work with the poor and marginalized, while also expressing mild disappointment at the lower-than-expected turnout.

Dr. Ravin Rego, a medical officer from South Goa District Hospital, Margao, led the medical team. He stressed the importance of educating younger generations about the value of blood donation, noting that voluntary blood drives play a crucial role in collecting much-needed units.

Rego also pointed out the challenges posed by those who seek blood in emergencies yet hesitate to donate, often using political influence rather than freely participating in donation drives.

The event was supported by volunteers from Caring Souls Goa, including Ranjit Rodrigues and Mark D’Souza, who ensured smooth operations.

The camp also featured an Organ Donation Information Desk managed by the MOHAN Foundation, an NGO based in Chennai, with Gabriel John Pereira leading the awareness efforts.

The successful camp inspired the organizers to plan more blood donation events in the future, aiming to help individuals maintain healthy hemoglobin levels while increasing the number of regular donors.

Certificates and donor cards were distributed to all who participated, with many leaving the camp feeling fulfilled and grateful for the opportunity to give back.