[Interview] The assistant manager, Shin Dong Jin who got the citation from Korea National Red Cross (KNRC)
There are only less than 10 days left in 2015, our company have got heart-warming news. Shin Dong Jin, the assistant manager of the Corporation & Branch Management Teamhas received the citation for a total of 118 blood donations from the president of the Korea National Red Cross (KNRC).
His virtue proves that he loves others besides himself and the society so his familiar face looks more radiant somehow. The following is the brief interview with him.
■ How do you feel about receiving the citation? Why did you decide to donate blood in earnest?
= I’m bewildered at receiving the citation I wasn’t expecting but I also feel really great about it.
My people were also proud of me and praised me a lot. Actually, I thought about blood donation in 2000. At that time, my mother faced a big surgery and she needed 3 packs of blood for the transfusion. However, I was just a middle school senior so sadly, I couldn’t meet certain criteria to donate my blood. Then, I started giving blood in earnest after entering high school and I happened to continue it.
■ What’s your favorite thing about blood donation?
= I feel rewarded giving the blood donor card to those in need. New blood is always being made inside of my body. Besides, I can get useful souvenirs such as umbrellas, auxiliary batteries, chocolate pies,, gift cards, etc. I’ve ever got the coupon for a hamburger set so I had hamburgers right after blood donation.
■ How were you selected as the awardee? And where did you get the citation?
= I received the award vicariously at the <Blood Donation House> located in Sinchon on the Korea National Red Cross’s foundation day. From what I hear, 2015 is the Republic of Korea National Red Cross’s 110th anniversary. The awardee was selected among the recommended people of merits and the blood donation center that I’ve often visited recommended me two months ago.
■ What’s next for you? Do you have another plan for voluntary services?
= I have a plan to donate blood to the age of 70.
Actually, when I got the award, I also had a cake with 7 candles. I asked why and according to the Red Cross, 7 candles on the cake means their hope that I will be able to stay healthy away from alcohol, cigarettes and to donate blood to the age of 70. I also hope I can do this for a long time by keeping myself in good health.
In addition, I want to work for ‘Habitat for Humanity’ that builds houses for the poor. In fact, it may be not easy to join up for it while I am in the company but if I have a chance, I’d like to participate in the work.
■ Do you want to say something to those who hesitate to give blood?
= You can save many people with making a grimace of pain for a second. You will feel a tiny prick in your arm first time only. However, when you get the blood donor card, the pain will begin to go off with the expectation that your blood can save many lives. Of course, you can feel rewarded and proud. In addition, the more you donate blood, the faster you can get a blood transfusion at no charge in an emergency. We live together with our neighbors. Besides blood donation, I hope more people will actively join the efforts to help others.