Volunteers from the Seventh-day Adventist Church in northern Peru donated 343 units of blood: in Yurimaguas, 35 units; in Bellavista, 75 units; in Tarapoto, 89 units; and in Rioja, 126 units, surpassing the goal to supply the blood bank of the San Martin region. Additionally, in the Amazonas region, specifically in the city of Chachapoyas, 18 units were donated.
The Vida por Vidas (“Life for Lives”) solidarity campaign was carried out in coordination with local hospitals such as Red Asistencial Tarapoto EsSalud, Hospital de Rioja, and Hospital Santa Cruz, among others. In addition, Dr. Carlos Chavez, director of Hospital de Rioja, gave recognition to the Adventist youth for their altruistic spirit of donating blood and food for those who need it most.
Pastor Alan Cosavalente, director of Youth Ministries for the North Peru Union, indicated this is the fifteenth year that they have donated blood on a voluntary basis. He also pointed out that these campaigns are carried out as a Christian principle, being an invaluable act of benefit to others. "We confirm our excitement to see the youth reacting to this great movement that we develop annually. Through the blood that our young Adventists donate, they can give life to three people," he added.
Pastor Daniel Montalvan, president of the North Peru Union, maintains that campaigns like these are important, "not only because they demonstrate the sensitivity of the people, but also because we identify with Jesus, since He donated His blood to have hope."
In this way, hundreds of volunteers reaffirm their commitment to provide hope through the example of Christ. He cared about each person, and blood donation is an act of kindness that saves millions of lives every year.
The original version of this story was posted on the South American Division Spanish-language news site.