From a chance conversation to a life-saving blood drive-how community, partnership, and purpose came together in Jos.
Blood saves lives. Yet, for millions living with Sickle Cell Disease, access to safe blood remains a daily struggle.
In commemoration of World Sickle Cell Awareness Month, Hemolife partnered with the Jos University Medical Students’ Association (JUMSA) and the Department of Haematology & Blood Transfusion, Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) to turn awareness into action, and the results were extraordinary.
From Small Talks to Big Change
Sometimes, the biggest movements begin with the smallest conversations.
About two weeks before the blood drive, a simple discussion during a bus journey sparked an idea: What if we organized a blood drive to support patients in urgent need-especially those living with Sickle Cell Disease?
Within 48 hours, that idea became a plan. Meetings were held. Roles were assigned. Partners aligned. Despite tight timelines and logistical challenges, commitment never wavered.
As the CEO of Hemolife, Emmanuel Ejike often says:
“Partnership makes everything possible.”
Bringing Blood Donation to the Heart of the Community
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the Metro Bus Park at Terminus Market, Jos, transformed from a busy commercial hub into a center of compassion, healthcare, and hope.
This strategic choice of location ensured that blood donation awareness reached everyday people; traders, commuters, students, and residents, right where they are.
Impact at a Glance
- 565+ people reached with education on blood donation and Sickle Cell Disease
- 117 pints of blood collected
- 350+ lives potentially saved (each pint can save up to 3 lives)
These numbers represent more than statistics. They represent futures preserved, families protected, and hope restored.
Why Blood Donation Matters for Sickle Cell Disease
Nigeria carries one of the highest global burdens of Sickle Cell Disease, and many patients depend on frequent blood transfusions to survive crises.
Unfortunately, blood scarcity remains a major challenge.
This blood drive focused on:
- Educating the public about Sickle Cell Disease
- Promoting voluntary and regular blood donation
- Debunking myths and fears around blood donation
- Encouraging first-time donors to take that courageous first step
Every donor became a hero. Every pint became a lifeline.
Powered by Purposeful Collaboration
This impact would not have been possible without the collective effort of committed partners and volunteers:
- 🩺 Jos University Medical Students’ Association (JUMSA) – for mobilizing passionate young volunteers
- 🧪 Department of Haematology & Blood Transfusion, JUTH – for medical screening, safety, and professional supervision
- 🩸 National Blood Service Agency (NBSA) – for institutional support
- ❤️ Hemolife – for awareness, digital coordination, and community engagement through our AI-driven blood donation platform
- 🙌 Volunteers from Medicine, Pharmacy (PANS), Veterinary Medicine (AVMS), Medical Laboratory Science (NiMELSSA), and more
This was collaboration in its truest form.
Beyond One Blood Drive
This event reaffirmed Hemolife’s mission:
A world where no one dies waiting for blood.
It showed us that:
- Community-driven healthcare works
- Awareness leads to action when access is simple
- Technology and compassion together save lives
We are just getting started.
As we continue to expand blood donation awareness and access across communities, one thing remains certain, together, we can make blood scarcity history.
