MANILA -- For Nap Marilag, founder and president of Dugong Alay, Dugtong Buhay Inc., donating blood is one of the highest forms of loving and giving.
His organization is a non-stock, non-profit organization in the Philippines, which had committed to collect blood nationwide and offer it for free to people from all walks of life.
In his almost 24-year advocacy, Marilag never knew that his passion and drive to promote this noble work would further grow. Until one day when a nine-year-old kid who earlier was sent with free bags of blood while confined in the hospital knocked on his door -- healed and profusely thanking him.
"The kid suffered serious burns to the point that his blood circulation was affected. When they contacted us, I gave the father an endorsement letter to claim blood at the Medical City Hospital, which he immediately brought to Pasig City General Hospital," Marilag shared.
Arriving at the hospital, the father witnessed how his child's condition worsened. "Kulang na lang sabihin ng doktor, wala na (he was expecting to tell him it’s a hopeless case)," Marilag said.
But right after the cross-match and transfusion of blood, the kid moved, as if revitalized.
Nine months after his last communication with the family, Marilag said he was surprised to see the father and child in front of his house.
"After nine months, the father just knocked at my door along with his child on a bicycle. The kid said, 'maraming salamat po, Sir Nap' (thank you very much, Sir Nap), then the father said I'm the first person they visited after their nine-month stay at the hospital," Marilag said.
This inspired him to persevere more in helping others through blood donation.
"What I get from these are pure emotions, emotions that you can actually feel others' deep appreciation for your service," he said.
Marilag said Dugong Alay, Dugtong Buhay, established in the 90s, already grew branches with most of their early beneficiaries turning into volunteers themselves.
"We will continue to instill values among the people that in the long run, we could have a good place here on earth where all those who received help, in their own ways, give back in return." (PNA)
