Media Release

Udupi, Mar 30: The Catholic Sabha, Shankerpura unit, ICYM and Health Commission of St John The Evangelist Church, Shankerpura, jointly in association with Blood Bank, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, organised a voluntary blood donation camp on Sunday March 28 at the parish community hall.

The chief guest on the occasion was Vishak G Shetty, co-founder of ‘Team Jeeva Nidhi’ Udupi. The stage programme was presided over by Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, the parish priest of St John The Evangelist Church, Shankerpura. Also present on the dais were Fr Roshan D’Cunha, the assistant parish priest, Dr Fathima, medical officer of the blood bank, KMC, Manipal, Parish Council secretary Anitha D’Souza, convener of Commissions Margaret Seema D’Souza, Health Commission coordinator Jerome Rodrigues, president of Catholic Sabha, Shankerpura unit Gregory D’Souza and ICYM president Rakesh Fernandes.

The brief stage programme commenced with a prayer. Jerome Rodrigues welcomed the guest and the gathering. Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves along with other dignitaries on the dais inaugurated the camp by lighting the lamp. In his inaugural address, Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves said, "The greatest donation is the donation of blood, as it is charity for a noble cause to save lives." He stressed the healthy parishioners and youth to donate blood regularly.

Dr Fathima explained the blood donation screening procedures and the significance of voluntary blood donation. Vishak G Shetty spoke about the importance of regular blood donation and complimented the voluntary blood donors. He added that one unit of blood can save three lives. He appreciated the youth for their initiative towards the community services.

The team of nurses and health officials from the blood bank of KMC, Manipal, assisted while the camp was in progress. ICYM president Rakesh Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was compeered by Domian Noronha.