The Tamil Nadu Thowheed Jamaath, (TNTJ), a south India based organization, organized its 51st and 52nd mega blood donation drive on two consecutive weekends. These campaigns were conducted with the support and guidance of Central Tower Hospital, Dammam, for use in this year's Haj emergencies. The campaigns started early on Friday morning. Voluntary donors from various nationalities like India, Pakistan, Philippines, Syria, Sudan, Egypt and Sri Lanka gathered at the hospital premises while a large number of expatriates mostly from the Tamil-speaking community from south India pledged to donate on a regular basis. TNTJ volunteers helped the hospital staff in registration and coordination. A standard health screening procedure was followed prior to blood transfusion. Each donor underwent tests for blood pressure; sugar and hemoglobin count before donation. The checks also included communicable diseases. During these consecutive campaigns more than 250 volunteers gathered at the hospital premises and 205 units were donated — 121 units on first weekend and 84 units on the second. TNTJ organizers helped with transportation to bring enthusiastic donors to the blood bank. According to the Zonal Secretary of TNTJ Abubakkar, "We conduct these campaigns in accordance with the teaching of Holy Qur'an." So far TNTJ organization has conducted 50 such massive blood donation campaigns in Al Khobar, Dammam, Qatif and Jubail hospitals. TNTJ continues to be No. 1 organization in Blood Donation Camp in Tamil Nadu as well as in GCC countries. In India and Saudi Arabia, health authorities have awarded a number of certificates praising TNTJ's noble work. TNTJ also regularly performs educational, charity, humanitarian, and social services to serve the people. This includes sending the mortal body of the deceased to India from Saudi Arabia. These events help in improving harmony and also creates awareness about Islam. — SG
