The commemorative event, held at the Phuket Merlin Hotel, was presided over by Phuket Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam, with distinguished guests including Natthakanya Saengpho, Vice President of the Phuket branch of the Red Cross Society, and Dr Supalak La-ongphet, Deputy Director of Vachira Phuket Hospital.
In his opening remarks, Vice Governor Suwit reflected on the historic foundation of the hospital’s blood bank on May 23, 1967.
He paid tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, who officiated the original launch of the Red Cross Blood Center at the hospital. He credited their royal grace for inspiring generations of blood donors, helping save the lives of countless Thais and foreign nationals over nearly six decades.
“Blood donation is a selfless and irreplaceable act of compassion,” he said. “It builds a warmer society, one that breathes life into others.”
The ceremony drew over 200 attendees from various sectors, who gathered to express their gratitude and the legacy of giving. The event featured a video tribute titled ‘The Giver is Happy, Giving Breath to the Recipient’, along with a series of awards honouring exemplary blood donors and supporters.
Certificates of honor were presented to individuals who have donated blood 300, 200, 100 and 50 times. Commemorative pins recognised donors with 96, 84, 72, 60 and 48 donations. Agencies supporting blood procurement efforts and dedicated blood bank volunteers also received certificates and souvenirs in appreciation of their continued efforts.
Dr Supalak outlined the event’s objectives: to honor the royal legacy, encourage blood donation as a vital humanitarian act, raise awareness of the hospital’s blood services, and thank donors and partner agencies for their unwavering support.
In closing, Vice Governor Suwit encouraged the public to carry forward King Bhumibol’s vision by regularly donating blood, reinforcing a spirit of unity and compassion throughout Thai society.
Meanwhile, Vachira Phuket Hospital announced that it has so far received B402,264,094 in donations to go towards the construction of its new cancer-treatment facility.