We celebrate the extraordinary blood donors at Capitol Medical Center who have been giving the gift of life through blood donation for decades. Meet some inspiring individuals whose commitment to saving lives shines even brighter during this festive season.
Join this life-saving mission. Donate blood and save lives.
The Importance of Blood Donation During the Holiday Season
As the Christmas season approaches, many of us are caught up in the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations—decorating our homes, shopping for gifts, and planning festive gatherings.
While it’s a joyful time filled with celebrations, it’s essential to remember that for many patients in hospitals, the need for blood remains as urgent as ever.
Traditionally, many blood donation centers have observed a consistent decline in blood donations during the holiday season. This trend is often attributed to the fact that people tend to prioritize family gatherings, celebrations, and travel, during this time, leading to a reduced availability of donors.
However, patients battling illnesses or recovering from surgeries continue to rely on blood transfusions for survival.
As we celebrate the spirit of giving, we unveil the stories of some of CMC’s longest-serving blood donors—individuals whose extraordinary commitment to saving lives through blood donation serves as a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make.
The Lifesaving Heroes: CMC’s Blood Warriors
For over 25 years, Praxedes del Mundo has been a regular blood donor at Capitol Medical Center. “Masarap, masarap ang pakiramdam. Sometimes nga, ako pa yung naghahanap kung sino yung nangangailangan,” she shares with pride. Her dedication to helping others exemplifies the spirit of CMC’s blood donation drive, where people like Praxedes are always ready to give the gift of life, one bag of blood at a time.
Blood donations can help save lives, whether for patients undergoing surgeries, victims of accidents, or those battling severe illnesses. These donations provide not only a second chance but also hope in the midst of uncertainty.
A Tradition of Giving Back
Edgardo Milad, another longtime donor, has been giving blood at CMC since 1994. Now an on-call donor, Edgardo sees blood donation as a mission, saying, “Malaking bagay yung nakapagdodonate na ako. Di ko na hinahangad na purihin ako ng iba. Makapagdonate lang ako, masaya na ako.” His humble and selfless attitude reflects the essence of the Capitol Medical Center Blood Warriors—individuals who donate not for recognition but for the fulfillment of saving lives.
A Journey of Transformation
Dr. Pia Marquez Mendiola from the Department of Pediatrics journey started as a simple act of community service during her college days. But over time, it became deeply personal.
“The recent past years, it slowly became an act of gratitude because my father-in-law was in the ICU for quite some time. We couldn’t donate because it was COVID, but CMC readily gave him blood,” she shared. Moved by this experience, she continues to donate regularly, paying it forward to those in need.
The Fulfillment of Giving Life
For Jill Ong, an Employment Specialist at CMC, donating blood is a source of unparalleled fulfillment. Her journey started from a personal desire to help others, and over time, it has turned into a consistent act of generosity.
“Every time I donate blood, I feel an unmatched sense of fulfillment,” Jill says. “I know that my blood will help someone in need.”
Better to Give than to Receive
Maria Carmina Dela Cruz, Corporate Planning and Quality Manager at Capitol Medical Center embodies the essence of selflessness through her inspiring decade-long commitment to blood donation.
“When you keep on donating blood, you get to understand the patient’s point of view—how urgent their need is,” Maria Carmina shares. “I want to be the one who helps.”
Her continuous support of blood donation has become a personal mission, as she regularly participates in CMC’s blood drives. She finds fulfillment in knowing that her blood is helping someone recover and regain their health. “It’s a special feeling knowing that part of my blood is running through someone else, helping them become healthy again.”
Be a Blood Donor, Become a Lifesaver
Maria Carmina, Jill, and Adrian represent the spirit of Capitol Blood Warriors, inspiring others to take part in the mission of giving life through blood donation. Donating blood is a simple, safe, and powerful act that anyone can do. By becoming a blood donor, you join a community of lifesavers who make a difference every day.
For these long-time blood donors, blood donation is a priceless gift, a lifeline to those who need it most. Their stories are a testament to the enduring impact of generosity and compassion, inspiring more people to join this life-saving mission.
A Commitment to Safe and Adequate Blood Supply
Capitol Medical Center’s Blood Bank, under the leadership of Dr. Maria Mystica Flodalyn Bautista, works tirelessly to ensure that the hospital has a safe and adequate supply of blood for all patients in need of transfusion. “Our ultimate goal is to provide safe and adequate blood for all our patients who need transfusion,” says Dr. Bautista. “We owe our altruistic donors the strong foundation of our blood donation service. Today is our opportunity to thank and recognize them for their generous spirit during this season of giving.
This Christmas, as we reflect on the importance of giving, let us remember that the act of donating blood is one of the most profound gifts we can offer. As more donors continue their mission of giving, CMC remains a vital source of life-saving care for countless patients.
Be Part of the Mission—Give Blood, Give Life
You, too, can become part of this mission. Donate blood and help save lives at Capitol Medical Center’s Blood Bank. Schedule your visit by calling 8-372-3825 or 5318-5100 local 1205. For any related concerns, contact our Care Concierge Hotlines at 09190873653, 09190691890, 09190691891, and 09190691892.