International volunteers participate in blood donation event in Shanghai

A total of 90 international volunteers from around the world gathered on Sunday at the Shanghai Blood Center for a blood donation event organized by the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the center, in coordination with Bloodline, a volunteer group of expat blood donors.

Volunteers from various countries showcased cultural performances that included dynamic dances and music, all in a festive atmosphere aimed at promoting the life-saving cause of blood donation and highlighting the city's spirit of openness, inclusiveness and benevolence.

Ashish Maskay, founder of Bloodline and a Nepalese surgeon who has worked in Shanghai for over two decades, made his 60th blood donation in the city that day.

"I feel incredibly honored to contribute to the city's blood donation efforts," said Maskay. The volunteer group has inspired thousands of expats to participate in blood donation activities since its establishment in 2017.

Pamoda Gooneratne, consul general of Sri Lanka in Shanghai, and her team also participated in the event and offered to help. Some brought local specialty tea and biscuits as nutritional support for blood donors, and others joined the blood donation drive.

"Blood donation is regarded as a noble act in our country. We are very happy that similar events are held in Shanghai. As Sri Lankans, we are glad to take part in them," she said.

Dennis Olschewski from Germany was one of the expats who donated blood, having donated blood multiple times in Shanghai.

"I just think it's the right thing to do and it's a perfect way to give back to the community. There are always people in need of blood, and perhaps someone around me or I myself might be the one who needs it someday," said Olschewski, who works at the German School Shanghai and has lived in the city for seven years.