Kitty's Blood Drive targets 250 bags

Popular media personality Miss Kitty will be hosting her second annual blood drive inside the Mandela Park in Half-Way Tree today.

In light of the recent call for blood from popular personalities such as Sean Paul (for his father, who later passed away) and just Wednesday, for veteran journalist Simon Crosskill, Miss Kitty says the need for blood drives is even more potent.

The radio talk-show host said public figures should lead the cause where blood drives are concerned, as they have a platform and a voice they can use to really get persons to come out and donate.

"To whom much is given, much is expected. When people are blessed, we should use our blessings to bless others. As public figures, we have a responsibility to ensure that we use our platform to do as much good as we can," she said. "You can never tell when you or a loved one will be in need, and if the banks have a constant supply, then the time it takes to come out and beg the public for assistance and donations could be used to save the lives of those you love."

Miss Kitty says that with her blood drive, she wants persons to feel relaxed when giving as there are too many misconceptions surrounding the act of donation.

"I just thought of using my platform as a way of highlighting the fact that there is a dire need, and also to educate persons on the fact that it's not as scary as people think. You don't need to be afraid, it's simple, and one donation can save multiple lives," she said. "We want to take away the fear from blood donation and make the event a fair. We will be having entertainment, prizes and surprises from our sponsors, so when you come to donate it will feel like a family fun village. It's free. All we want people to do is come out and give as much blood as you can, because every day we're realising more and more how necessary these drives are."

Miss Kitty said last year's drive collected 150 bags and this year, they're aiming to do 250 bags.

She also intends to extend the drive to parishes outside of Kingston in the future as she hopes to make it an islandwide initiative.