Sometimes a small act on the part of one person can make a world of difference in the life of another. June 14 is World Blood Donor Day and is an important reminder that all those who can give blood should do so -- because in giving blood, one is literally giving life. Every year, millions of people are saved because individuals from all over the world take the 15 minutes necessary to donate a pint of blood. In doing so, these people save a life.

Better still, I encourage you to organize a group activity to get together and give blood. One of my favourite memories as Head of the Law School at University of Canberra is of a group of academics and support staff joining together to give blood. As I led our delegation in, I introduced our team: "I'm Dr Clark, this is Dr Burton, etc." The other donors already there replied, "We are impressed --even doctors are giving blood." I didn't have the heart to tell them that we weren't medical doctors but lawyers who happened to have PhDs.

Not only is giving blood good for the recipients, it also has health benefits for the donor as well. In order to qualify to give blood you have to do some basic health checks, which can be beneficial for the donor. The body also burns calories while replacing the blood, and the thinning of blood can help reduce the risk of heart disease and even some cancers.

Giving blood also makes economic sense. In some places, people can get paid for giving blood. It is also common that you can get "blood credits," ensuring that you'll be entitled to blood should you require it in a medical emergency.

In a world where disasters, acts of terror and other misfortunes are a daily occurrence, all communities need a good supply of blood to help save lives.

June 14 is a day when we are called upon to take a moment to think less about earning a living and more about making a difference and saving a life. Give blood and join with colleagues and friends to become the "lifeblood" of your community.

Eugene Clark is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit: http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/eugeneclark.htm

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors only, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.

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