Vroom for a vital sign

A gang of over 400 young bikers were spotted vrooming through the streets of Sheshadipuram, Sadashivnagar and Malleswaram on Sunday morning. Surprisingly though, they weren’t halting for a chai break but spreading awareness for a blood donation campaign. Not only were their efforts appreciated, they were also able to collect 185 units of blood for those in need.

The July 1 morning came alive on the right note as Biking Buddies, a city-based biking group, organised a blood donation camp at Sheshadripuram College, Bengaluru.

The event started at 8 am with a rally that saw the city’s bikers rev up for a cause. They went around the streets of Sheshadipuram holding placards and banners spreading awareness about blood donation. Over 400 bikers across Bengaluru participated in the rally.

“Two years ago, I got a call from my friend asking me if I knew anyone who could donate blood to a cancer patient who was in a critical condition. The effort I had put in to avail the right donor shook me. I wanted to make sure this never happens ever again. The same year, we conducted our first blood donation camp, in 2017, and I am happy to say that we were able to collect 168 units of blood,” says Abhishek BV, convenor of Biking Buddies.

Over 400 people registered for the event and 185 of them were qualified for blood donation.

“The camp was sponsored by the Lions Club of Sanjaynagar. A group of experienced doctors were present at the venue to conduct a thorough check up (including BP, sugar, and a general blood test) before permitting the individuals to donate. We were able to collect 185 units of blood which will be used by the Lions Club and Aster Hospital,” says Gopika Prasad, an employee at State Street Corporation and a member of Biking Buddies.

People started coming in for the donation from 10 am. A majority of the donors were young riders who wanted to support the noble cause.

“It is good to see youngsters concerned about society. I was made aware of the blood donation camp when I saw the bikers pass through my house and I was overwhelmed with joy. I am happy I was able to donate blood,” says Vijay Kumar, a resident of Sheshadipuram.

Apart from the blood donation camps, the group is known for their other charitable initiatives as well.

“We go to schools that are mostly located in rural areas, and try to provide children with what they need. After visiting schools, we create a group where we discuss how we can possibly help these children and based on the suggestions, we pick what we can do best. If the school is located in an area that is cold, we provide warm clothing. We have donated sports kits, books and bags too,” says Satheesh Rao, the Moderator of Biking Buddies.