FILIPINO fans of K-pop powerhouse BTS, collectively known as ARMY, have prepared various activities to celebrate the 27th birthday of the group’s “Golden Maknae” Jung Kook.
Jung Kook, BTS’ main vocalist, will celebrate his birthday on September 1. To mark this special day, Filo ARMY will hold cupsleeve events in different cafes, install birthday advertisements, and give away freebies, among others.
But more than celebrating Jung Kook’s birthday, such projects are a way for the fans to give back to communities.
One Filipino fandom, BFM Jungkookies, has partnered with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) to hold a blood-letting activity ahead of their idol’s birthday celebration.
Titled “Golden X Unity: United to Save Lives,” the campaign aims to “save lives” and “give hope” to blood recipients and their loved ones.
It will be held on Saturday, August 24, at the Philippine Red Cross Logistics and Multipurpose Center at the PRC National Headquarters in Mandaluyong City.
This will be the third time BFM Jungkookies held the blood donation drive to celebrate Jung Kook’s birthday and help improve or extend someone else’s life.
On July 31, the PRC awarded the fandom the Diploma of Service for being advocates for at least two years and donating at least 200 bags of blood. Last year, BFM Jungkookies collected 169 bags of blood, and 80 bags in 2022.
For 2024, BFM Jungkookies hopes to accommodate more blood donors, regardless if they are part of the fandom.
“The more blood donated, the more patients will benefit,” it said in a press statement.
Who can donate
Interested participants, aged 16 to 65, with good health conditions, may donate their blood.
For minors, they are required to present written consent from their guardian.
Participants should also weigh at least 110 pounds or 50 kilograms and pass the physical examination to be conducted onsite before donation.
A valid ID is a must for verification purposes.
Eligible blood donors may register through this Google form.
To-dos before and after blood donation
Individuals who are willing to take part in the activity should follow these reminders before donating blood:
- Get at least five hours of rest
- Refrain from drinking alcohol 24 hours prior
- Be assessed onsite for recent travel, medications, piercings, and tattoos
- Eat non-fatty foods
After donating blood, donors should:
- Stay hydrated with water or juice
- Avoid bending over
- Refrain from intense activities
- Apply a cold compress for 24 hours followed by a warm one for the next 24 hours if there is swelling or discoloration at the puncture site
- Lie down with feet elevated if feeling dizzy
The PRC said blood donation also benefits donors by allowing them to be examined by a doctor and know their blood type.
