The Ride-Sharing Hero Who Made Headlines for Blood and Platelet Donations

The Inspiring Story of a Ride-Hailing Driver Who Has Donated Blood Over 100 Times

Nguyễn Văn Thanh, a 26-year-old ride-hailing driver from Mê Linh, Hà Nội, has recently gone viral for his act of stopping traffic at an intersection to make way for an ambulance. Beyond this act that captured the hearts of the online community, Thanh is also well-known at the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion in Hanoi for his regular blood and platelet donations over the years.

The noble story of Nguyễn Văn Thanh has been an inspiration to many – Photo: VĂN TUYẾN

Having donated blood and platelets over 100 times, Thanh’s silent acts of kindness remained largely unrecognized until his recent viral moment on social media. “It’s been eight years since I started donating blood and platelets. What makes me happy is not the fame, but the fact that through my story, more people have become aware of the importance of regular blood donation,” shared Thanh.

Despite his move back to his hometown and taking up a different job, Thanh faithfully travels 30km to the Institute every month to donate platelets. Initially, his frequent donations even made his wife suspicious, wondering if he had a romantic interest at the hospital. It took some time for Thanh to explain his volunteer work, eventually earning his wife’s trust and understanding.

Many were skeptical when Thanh shared on Facebook that he had donated blood and platelets 100 times, especially considering his young age. Since then, he has chosen to keep his voluntary work more private.

Thanh’s act of managing traffic to give way to an ambulance, where he was seen bowing apologetically to other road users, garnered immense appreciation online – Photo: VĂN TUYẾN

The moment social media was flooded with images of Thanh in his ride-hailing jacket, assisting with traffic control under the hot sun and sharing his story of donating blood and platelets over 100 times, many admired his generosity. “I never thought I would become so well-known,” Thanh expressed.

From initially participating in blood donation for extra school credits, Thanh’s perspective changed following a personal accident in 2017. After being hospitalized at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital and needing blood transfusions, he realized the life-saving importance of blood donation.

Currently, with 108 donations to his name, Thanh continues his routine of donating blood and platelets. He meticulously prepares for each donation, ensuring he meets the required health standards.

Thanh’s selfless acts are a beautiful example of the many young people quietly contributing to a better society by helping those in need of blood.

The National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion acknowledges Thanh’s regular contributions, emphasizing that regular donors like him ensure a stable and safe blood supply for patients. “If every healthy individual could donate blood regularly, at least 2-3 times a year, hospitals would always have a stable blood supply for patients in need,” said a representative from the institute.

(Source: Tuổi Trẻ Newspaper)