Blood donor becomes recipient: Gregory Naidoo's full-circle journe

AFTER receiving five units of blood following a serious car accident 10 years ago, Gregory Naidoo, from Chatsworth, recommitted to his blood donation journey that began when he was just 16.

Now at 57, he has donated 20 times and runs blood donation clinics at his local church, embodying his belief that 'I am my brother's keeper

“I sustained multiple injuries, both internal and external, which resulted in a great loss of blood. I am grateful to have received a transfusion which was life-giving.”  

Naidoo, an electronic security sales consultant, said prior to needing a blood transfusion, he had been a donor since he was 16 years old. 

“In 1984, I gave my first donation during a blood drive at my high school. My friends and I were inspired to do something for our community. However, the incentive of receiving cookies and juice was also quite enticing. Since then I continued to donate blood when time permitted.”

Naidoo said since then he had donated blood about 20 times. 

“I donate at least twice a year. I have also donated post the transfusion.”

Naidoo added he was also motivated to run a blood donation clinic at his local church. 

The father of three, said donating blood gave him a sense of fulfilment without the expectation of a reward and knew it impacted people’s lives positively.

“On the receiving end, it is heartwarming to know that life comes full circle to have received from someone else’s donation.

“I also believe it is imperative to donate as it is life-giving, added to the notion that ‘I am my brother’s keeper’,” he said.

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