‘Angels Among Us’: Apeejay School, Saket organises blood donation camp

Commemorating the Founder’s Day of Apeejay Education and the birth anniversary of Late Dr Stya Paul, Founder Chairman , Apeejay Stya Group & Apeejay Education, Apeejay School, Saket organised a Blood Donation Camp in the school’s Yoga Room. The event embodied the Founder’s ideals of empathy, selfless service, and commitment to society.

The initiative was spearheaded by the Interact Club of Apeejay School, Saket, under the aegis of the Rotary Club of Delhi Premiere (District 3011), in collaboration with the Rotary Blood Centre near Batra Hospital. A team of five medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and technicians, ensured a smooth and hygienic donation process.

A united community effort

The camp saw enthusiastic participation across the school community, with 36 registrations and 20 successful donors, including parents, teachers, alumni, ancillary staff, volunteers from outside, and friends of staff members.

Before donating, all participants underwent blood pressure, haemoglobin, and weight checks, and were encouraged to have a light meal. Those who had not eaten were served food before the procedure. After donation, donors were rested for ten minutes under observation by the medical team.

They were later treated to refreshments like juice and biscuits provided by Rotary, and a food box from Apeejay School, Saket, which included juice, sandwich, burger, samosa, and muffin. Each donor also received a certificate, medal, and donor card as tokens of appreciation.

Learning empathy through action

Speaking about the significance of the drive, Ms Nalini Malik, PGT (Home Science), shared a heartfelt message, “Who says angels live in heaven? They are amongst us as donors. And we are those angels. Our school believes deeply in human and philanthropic values. We teach empathy, not just sympathy. Empathy is when you put yourself in another’s place and feel what they feel. This is what our students learn here at Apeejay.”

Her words perfectly captured the school’s philosophy of nurturing socially responsible and compassionate young citizens.

Heartwarming moments from families

Mr Nitin Shah, father of Atharav (KG A), noted how the blood would be sent to support army personnel. “Nothing could be better than knowing our contribution will help those who serve the nation,” he said.

Similarly, Mr Anil Punia, father of Arya (Class 4 A), remarked, “It was great to donate after a few years. This is a no-loss thing. It’s all gain for both others and yourself.” While little Arya shared honestly, “When my father got injected, I felt a little scared but also proud.”

Mr Gautam Poddar, father of Advika (Class 8 A), said, “I got to know about the drive through the school app and my daughter’s class teacher. The whole process was smooth and well-managed. It’s a wonderful feeling to contribute to a noble cause.” His daughter, Advika, added with a smile, “I was scared of needles at first, but seeing my father donate blood made me proud.”

Meanwhile, Ms Suman Jain, mother of Krishiv (Class 9 A), expressed, “I feel proud that my small act might help save a life. Even though it’s just one unit of blood, it can mean the world to someone.”

The event turned into a celebration of kindness for many families. Class 9 student, Akanksha Yadav, proudly shared, “I feel very proud that both my parents came forward to donate blood. My mother couldn’t because her haemoglobin was low, but my father did. It feels good to know that my encouragement helped.”

For Mr Ibrahim Ahmed, father of Sarfaraz (Class 12 B), the experience was familiar yet special, “I’ve donated several times, but each time feels meaningful.” “I also wanted to donate too” said Sarfaraz when asked about his experience here, ‘Only a few months left until I’m old enough!’

Dinesh Kumar, a volunteer who joined through the Rotary Club, mentioned, “This was my eighth time donating blood. The organisation and care here were excellent, I’ll be happy to come again.”

And Anita, a member of the school’s ancillary staff and a first-time donor, said humbly, “I didn’t feel any weakness. I only felt happy that it will be useful to someone.”

Teachers too participated with equal enthusiasm. Ms Ashneet (PRT Primary) shared, “It’s been 10 years since I last donated. I always wanted to do it again, and when I got the opportunity in Apeejay, I didn’t think twice.”

Ms Priyanka Oberoi (PRT General) added, “I’ve donated blood before, and I’m feeling perfectly fine. It feels good to know it will go to army people and those in need.”

Awareness and outreach

Ahead of the event, the Interact Club organised a rally in the neighbourhood and at PVR Saket, displaying banners and posters to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation. WhatsApp messages and posters within the school also helped sensitise parents and community members.

The school’s medical staff was on standby throughout, ensuring that all hygienic and safety protocols were strictly followed.

Living the Founder’s vision

By the end of the camp, 20 units of blood were collected, which will go towards helping the Armed Forces and other patients in need. The event reflected the school’s ongoing efforts to instill the spirit of service before self among its students and community.

The blood donation drive stood as a touching reminder that compassion knows no age and that, indeed, “angels walk among us” in the form of those who give selflessly for others.