T A Sharif of Fort Kochi in Kerala is no ordinary blood donor. His blood has helped save the lives of over 74 people in the last 34 years. Though his fragile health, following a heart attack and a fall from a building while doing his construction painting work, forced him to stop donating blood in 2019, 56-year-old Sharif didn’t give up his passion to do good for society.
He has launched a mission to educate people about the importance of blood donation. It was at the age of 22 that Sharif started donating his blood when he went as a bystander for one of his friends who was admitted to Kottayam Government Medical College. “The doctor who attended to my friend gave us counselling about the importance of donating blood. In fact, it was from that particular doctor that I learned that blood donation is good for health, and a healthy person above 18 years of age should donate blood,” Sharif told “Open Digest.”
Sharif has now partnered with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) local unit in Kochi to conduct awareness programs on the importance of blood donation. “Whenever anyone approaches me seeking my help to find a blood donor, I used to chip in and do the needful,” Sharif said.
Sharif uses himself as an embodiment of his experience to inspire others to join the noble cause of blood donation. “Blood donation is one of the noblest and most generous activities one can do to save a person’s life,” he added.
Sharif’s awareness campaign has gained considerable traction in the community as he tirelessly shares his story, emphasising the crucial role of blood donation in saving lives. His dedication has not only encouraged more people to donate but has also helped raise awareness about the constant need for a sufficient blood supply.
Sharif has won many recognitions for his noble cause, and with 74 donations to his name and an unbreakable spirit, his inspiring life serves as a reminder of the profound impact one person’s selflessness can have on the lives of many.
(This article is written by journalism student Hasna Ziyad of St Albert’s College, Ernakulam as part of our Youth Skill Development Initiative organised in association with St Albert’s College and Global Educational Consultants)
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