Sümi Baptist Church Kohima organises blood donation drive

Sümi Baptist Church Kohima (SBCK) organised blood donation drive on May 13, wherein participants were highlighted on the importance of blood donation, HIV and AIDS prevalence in Nagaland and True Love Waits (TLW).
A press release by SBCK media cell informed that the blood donation drive was organised under the initiative of pastor Khekavi Yeptho at SBCK premises.
Addressing the gathering, chairman of Voluntary Blood Donors Association Kohima, Bendang Imsong appreciated the church for organising the drive. Highlighting the participants on demand of blood in Nagaland, Imsong said Dimapur, Kohima and Mokokchung districts record highest demand for blood, and encouraged people to come forward and donate blood as it is a “gift of God”.
Sensitising the participants on HIV and AIDS, Nagaland State AIDS Control Society, deputy director, Ainato Yeptho said HIV and AIDS was a threat to present Naga society.
He said there are 16 thousand HIV patients undergoing medical treatment in Nagaland and that children as young as 12-13 years were infected by the virus. Yeptho informed that Dimapur district recorded the highest HIV prevalence followed by Kohima and Tuensang districts.
Stating that 90-91% of HIV cases was through sexual route in Nagaland, he said 90% of HIV problems could be solved through correct and consistent use of condom.
Yeptho also urged people to reach out at toll free number 1097 for any HIV related cases and assistance. He also encouraged the youths to live a healthy lifestyle and spread HIV and AIDS awareness to the masses.
Speaking on True Love Waits (TLW), Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) youth secretary, Rev. Suhuto Chishi said youths from 85 churches have taken TLW pledge. He also highlighted the participants on the TLW campaign.
During the blood donation drive, 24 youth church members including the deacon of SBCK donated blood with the assistance of Blood Bank Naga Hospital, Kohima medical staff. The programme was hosted by SBCK associate pastor youth, Akuto Achumi and SBCK associate pastor children education, Piokali Sema.