Vietnamese Police Lieutenant Donates Blood 51 Times, Saving Lives with Rare AB+ Type
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A dedicated public servant in Da Nang, Vietnam, has become a lifeline for critically ill patients through repeated platelet donations. Lieutenant Truong Dinh Viet has selflessly donated blood 51 times, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to saving lives and embodying the spirit of community service.
A Race Against Time for Critical Patients
On December 18, 2025, while on duty, Lt. Truong Dinh Viet received an urgent call from the Hematology and Blood Transfusion Department at Da Nang Hospital. A 40-year-old patient suffering from myocarditis required an immediate transfusion of AB+ platelets while in intensive care. Without hesitation, Lt. Viet mobilized with his unit and rushed to the hospital, donating 250 ml of platelets that were promptly used to stabilize the patient.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Just over a month prior, Lt. Viet responded to a similar emergency call during a routine office meeting, again providing life-saving AB+ platelets to a patient with a critical cardiovascular condition. He consistently prioritizes these urgent requests, seeking permission from superiors and immediately offering his assistance.
The Crucial Difference Between Whole Blood and Platelet Donation
Lt. Truong Dinh Viet emphasizes the distinct nature of platelet donation compared to traditional whole blood donation. While whole blood donation is relatively quick and allows for periodic replenishment, platelet donation is a more complex process. It involves separating platelets from the blood and returning the remaining components to the donor.
“This process is long and requires good health, a stable mental state and a compatible blood type,” Lt. Viet explained. Platelet donations are particularly vital for individuals facing serious illnesses, but the pool of eligible donors remains limited. Each donation requires approximately 1.5 hours of stillness, with the donor’s arm extended, often causing discomfort and fatigue.
A Lifeline for Mothers and Children
One particularly poignant moment for Lt. Viet occurred in late May 2024. While spending time with his family, he received a call from Da Nang Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital. A postpartum woman was experiencing severe hemorrhage, putting both her life and the life of her newborn child at risk.
Driven by a sense of urgency and encouraged by his wife, Lt. Viet immediately traveled to donate 250 ml of AB+ platelets, ultimately saving both mother and child. This incident underscores the profound impact of his selfless actions.
Recognition and a Deeper Reward
Lt. Truong Dinh Viet’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized by the Chairman of the Da Nang City People’s Committee for his voluntary blood donations in 2019 and 2021. He also received certificates of merit from the Central Youth Union in 2023 and 2025, and was awarded the “Blooming Youth” award by the city Youth Union in 2024.
However, Lt. Viet maintains that the true reward lies in knowing his contributions have directly saved lives.
A Decade of Service and a Rare Blood Type
Lt. Viet began donating blood in 2011 while serving in the People’s Public Security Forces, initially donating whole blood before transitioning to platelets due to the high demand for his AB+ blood type in emergency situations. To date, he has made 7 whole blood donations and 44 platelet donations, averaging approximately 10 donations per year since 2023 to hospitals including Da Nang Hospital, Da Nang Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital, and Da Nang Oncology Hospital.
Despite acknowledging the potential long-term health effects of frequent platelet donation, Lt. Viet remains steadfast in his commitment, citing the unwavering support of his family as a source of strength.
A Valuable Resource for Da Nang Hospital
According to Dr. Doan Thi Cam Nhung, MSc and Deputy Head of the Hematology and Blood Transfusion Department at Da Nang Hospital, Lt. Truong Dinh Viet has donated platelets 22 times at their facility, directly contributing to the survival of numerous critically ill patients. “He is always ready to step in when the hospital needs him,” Dr. Nhung stated, praising his consistent availability.
Lieutenant Colonel Ho Dinh Tri, deputy head of the municipal police’s youth department, highlighted Lt. Viet’s exemplary sense of responsibility, both in his professional duties and his voluntary blood donation efforts. His dedication serves as a positive representation of law enforcement serving the community.
Lt. Truong Dinh Viet’s story is a testament to the power of selfless service and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others. His unwavering commitment to donating blood, particularly the critical AB+ platelets, continues to provide hope and healing to those in desperate need.
