A Teacher Who Has Donated Blood 33 Times to Save Lives

Few people know that behind his unwavering commitment lies a painful yet deeply humane memory. At the age of 18, Duong lost his father to a sudden heart attack while he was on the road. Despite the desperate efforts and kindness of strangers who rushed to help, his father did not survive. The image of those helping hands extended in that moment of tragedy became the defining force in the young man’s heart. He promised himself that he would pay that kindness forward to honor the strangers who once tried to save his own father.

Duong first donated blood in 1999, while he was still a university student. By the time he graduated, he had already donated blood 4 times. Since then, whether as a young teacher at Hiep Thanh Secondary School or later as Vice Principal of Quang Hiep Secondary School, he has faithfully maintained this meaningful practice.

As of December 2025, Mr. Duong has recorded a total of 33 voluntary blood donations. Remarkably, in 2025 alone, he donated blood 3 times, in January, May, and December.

Recalling his early days as a blood donor, Duong shared: “I was scared the first time. But after that, I felt much more confident. Now it feels natural. Although I may feel slightly tired for about a week after each donation, the happiness that follows is overwhelming. Knowing that my blood is flowing in someone else’s body and may help them survive makes me feel at peace.”

Beyond personal commitment, Duong has also become a “messenger” spreading the spirit of blood donation. He actively encourages family members, friends, and colleagues to take part. Thanks to his example, blood donation movements at the schools where he has worked have steadily grown.

Ms. Pham Thi Dien, Chairwoman of the Hiep Thanh Commune Red Cross Society, commented: “Mr. Duong is extremely active in local movements. He not only donates blood regularly, but also plays a key role in mobilizing the community. His contributions are truly admirable.”

Alongside his social engagement, Mr. Ho Hai Duong is an energetic and dedicated education manager. In his roles as Deputy Secretary of the school Party cell and Vice Principal, he has excelled in both professional duties and Party building. He has also been a pioneer in applying information technology and digital transformation at his school, while actively spearheading innovations under the 2018 General Education Program.

33 blood donations - a figure that represents more than just perseverance; it reflects a heart of gold. In recognition of his meaningful contributions, Mr. Duong received a Certificate of Merit from the Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee in 2021, along with multiple commendations from the Provincial Voluntary Blood Donation Steering Committee. These honors affirm a beautiful way of life and the enduring truth he lives by: to live is to give, to love, and to serve.