While most people celebrate their birthdays by receiving gifts, Guildford local Asif Ali Bangash has spent his 34th birthday giving something special back to the community – his blood.
As an asylum seeker, Bangash said his donation to the Lifeblood centre in Parramatta is his way of helping others, despite the challenging circumstances he faces.
Bangash first arrived in Australia as a stateless man at 22-years-old in 2012 and has been living here without visa and work rights since then.
Born in Parachinar, a region of Pakistan that protrudes into Afghanistan, Bangash was forced to flee his homeland at a young age.
Bangash has not seen his parents since then.
Tragically, they passed away during his time in Australia. He was unable to return home to say goodbye.
Despite these hardships, Bangash said he chooses to focus on the positive impacts he can make.
“Donating blood might seem small to others, but for me it’s a big part of how I can contribute to the country that has given me shelter,” he said.
“It’s my way of showing gratitude, of being part of a community that I’ve grown to love: even though I am not far from where I started.”
Bangash’s donation also comes at a time when Lifeblood are appealing for more people to donate blood in the wake of the recent Bondi stabbings.
“Asif’s decision to donate blood on his birthday is inspiring,” advocate Jane Salmon, who joined him at the blood drive, said.
“It reminds us that we all have something to contribute, no matter how constrained our circumstances.
“Asif Ali is more than a survivor – he is a beacon of stoicism and altruism. As he struggles to live in Australia, awaiting the overdue resolution of his visa status, his volunteering serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the impact one person can make.”
Following his donation, Bangash shared his one birthday wish: that more people consider donating blood.
“This donation is not just blood; it’s a lifeline from one human to another, it is hope for someone undergoing a health crisis,” he added.
“I celebrate my birthday as an asylum seeker living in Australia for the past 12 years without the rights many take for granted, but I have found comfort and strength in the act of giving back.”
“Today, on my birthday, I have chosen to donate unity.”
To find how to donate blood go to http://www.lifeblood.com.au
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.