On January 4, 2026, Nanjing experienced the coldest period of the year, yet a wave of warmth swept through the lobby of Nanjing Zijin Hospital. An organized voluntary blood‑donation drive was in full swing, bringing together medical staff, property‑management employees, patients’ family members, caregivers, and other compassionate individuals, who used their generous contributions to write a heartwarming opening chapter for the new year.

The first time and the Nth time—every act of kindness is equally precious.

At 9 a.m., long lines had already formed at the registration desk. Mr. Su, the property manager, was participating in a mass blood drive for the first time. “Every day, I see medical staff rushing to care for patients,” he said. “I wanted to do my part, too. I was a bit nervous, but knowing that my blood might save a life gave me a deep sense of peace.” With his arm still bandaged after donating, he wore a proud smile.

Mr. Yang, a family member of the patient, made a special trip from the ward: “During this time spent by my loved one’s side, I’ve come to appreciate even more deeply the vital role blood plays for patients. Being able to contribute today is my way of passing on that same warmth.”

Ms. Ma at the information desk tightly held the hand of Shuo's mother, a family member of the patient. Though her expression carried a hint of tension, her gaze was resolute. Having successfully donated 400 milliliters of blood last year, she felt even more confident this year. Although her heart still quickened before the needle was inserted, the moment the blood began to flow, her mind gradually grew calm, and a steady, bright smile spread across her face.

Auntie Chen, a family member of a first-time blood donor, could hardly conceal her apprehension and nervousness. As the needle pierced her skin and blood began to flow, she suddenly burst into tears: “At that moment, I couldn’t help but think of the suffering my daughter-in-law endured when she was ill—my heart aches for her.” Since taking care of the patient, she has come to deeply appreciate the value of every drop of blood and hopes that, through her own small act of generosity, she can help even more people.

Pharmacist Xu from the pharmacy arrived at the blood donation site early in the morning. Ever since the hospital began organizing blood‑donation drives, she has signed up every year—only to be turned away because her blood pressure or other health indicators fell short of the required standards. Despite being let down time and again, she has never given up. “I truly envy those who manage to donate; it’s not just a sign of good health—it’s also a way of passing on warmth,” she said softly, her voice tinged with both regret and hope. “This year I was just a little short; I’m hoping to pass next time.” Though she hasn’t yet succeeded in donating, her steadfast commitment and heartfelt dedication, year after year, are themselves far more precious—and far warmer—than the blood itself. We sincerely wish her that her dream comes true soon, allowing her to fulfill this kind-hearted aspiration she has cherished for so many years.

The team also included many familiar faces. Dr. Xie Bin from Ward 202 has donated blood for the ninth time: “As physicians, we know that every unit of blood is a beacon of hope.” A head nurse who has participated for years said with emotion, “What we give is not just blood—it is respect for life and a commitment to its preservation.”

Decades of unwavering dedication, with passion and zeal flowing like a mighty river.  

This event is being held in Jiangning and Qinhuai.

Both campuses are conducting it simultaneously.

According to statistics,

Both hospital campuses together 178 people successfully donated blood. ，

The total blood donation volume has reached 61,380 milliliters 。

As a tertiary rehabilitation hospital, Nanjing Zijin Hospital has joined the voluntary blood donation drive since the early 2000s. Each year, its “Donate Your Warm Blood” campaign has been held continuously for ten years, and voluntary blood donation has gradually become a cherished tradition. Hospital President Ge Jiangping stated: “After twenty years of steadfast commitment, blood donation has become a symbol of our hospital’s compassion. From medical staff to their families, from patients to support personnel, more and more people are stepping forward on their own initiative. This sense of responsibility fills us with warmth.”

In recent years, the hospital has repeatedly been honored with the municipal title of “Advanced Collective in Voluntary Blood Donation.” Through decades of unwavering dedication, it has not only provided robust support for clinical blood needs but has also exemplified the compassionate spirit of medical professionals and the collective responsibility of society.

With passion as our guide, let love keep flowing.  

Though the winter chill is fierce, our passion remains undimmed. Nanjing Zijin Hospital has infused the New Year with warmth and hope through a decades-long campaign of compassion. Every drop of blood is a gift of life; every act of giving is a relay of kindness.

In 2026,

This journey of love and life,

Still ongoing...