ASHA Worker from Kashmir made 28 blood donations since 2012

Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) worker, Bilqees Ara has set an example for people across the Kashmir valley by donating blood 2018 times since the year 2012. She has gained the title of 'blood woman of Kashmir' with her act of generosity.

Expressing her empathy for grieving people who helplessly try to get blood and save their lives, she expressed her privilege and pride on being a savior for many such patients in Kashmir valley. She also said that she experiences inner joy by donating blood, and wishes that all women come forward for the cause like she does.

The ASHA worker belongs to the Handwara tehsil of Kupwara district located in North Kashmir. A mother to three children, she shared that she has donated blood to one of her children as well. In case a patient needs blood at the Handwara hospital, the officials contact her, to which she responds in the shortest span of time possible.

People who have received help from her include pregnant ladies, accident victims and other patients across many hospitals in North Kashmir. A registered blood donor, she now looks forward to donating blood for people in Srinagar.

She urges other people to be available for blood donation as it brings physical and mental satisfaction to the donor. Throughout her journey, she has encouraged hundreds of people to do their part, and has also organized various blood donation camps.

According to the World Health Organization, India has witnessed a tremendous increase in the number of blood donors, with stats rising from 3.6 million (2007) to 4.6 million (2008). 90% of blood donors have been reported to be men, while 10% have been women.