Buddhists find purpose in regular blood donation

For many, Vesak Day signifies prayers and temple visits. But for two Buddhists in Singapore, it's also a time to physically embody their faith by donating blood.

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Even as a regular blood donor, I think it's not just about checking out the check box.

Jereme Wong, a 50-year-old advertising professional, has been donating blood for two decades. He sees it as a way to live out the Buddhist value of being "other-centered" through generosity and compassion. Wong emphasizes that for a practicing Buddhist, every action should be intentional. "As a practising Buddhist, we try to do every moment with intention, so coupling our purpose, our deliberate intention with actions," he told CNA.

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As a practising Buddhist, we try to do every moment with intention, so coupling our purpose, our deliberate intention with actions.

Wong, who facilitates mindfulness classes, returns to the blood collection chair up to four times a year. Now on his 38th donation, he schedules regular appointments to honor Buddhist teachings. "For a Buddhist celebrating Vesak Day, I think it's about honoring what Buddha has given us in terms of his wisdom and kindness," he explained. "In return... as a disciple of his teachings, it's about how we practice generosity in different facets of our life, so giving blood could be one."

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For a Buddhist celebrating Vesak Day, I think it's about honouring what Buddha has given us in terms of his wisdom and kindness.

Similarly, 34-year-old interior designer Macs Chen views blood donation as a form of giving, shaped by his Buddhist upbringing. Chen began donating at 18 after a friend invited him. His temple, Chong Hua Tong Tou Teck Hwee, has organized blood donation drives, aligning with his personal practice of integrating religious teachings with tangible acts of contribution to society.

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In return ... as a disciple of his teachings, it's about how we practise generosity in different facets of our life, so giving blood could be one.