Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, who has recovered from COVID-19, has vowed to donate plasma when he becomes eligible for it.
Tendulkar, who is celebrating his 48th birthday today (April 24), was diagnosed positive for the deadly virus on March 27 and had to be hospitalised under medical advice.
“I would like to give a message, which the doctors have told me to give. Last year, I had inaugurated a plasma donation centre and their message, if plasma is given at the right time, patients can recover faster,” Tendulkar said in a video uploaded on his Twitter handle.
“I personally, when permissible, will donate it and I have spoken to the doctors,” he added.
Thank you everyone for your warm wishes. It's made my day special. I am very grateful indeed.
Take care and stay safe. pic.twitter.com/SwWYPNU73q
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 24, 2021
Tendulkar was discharged from the hospital on April 8 and he was in home isolation thereafter.
The cricket icon also urged people who have recovered from COVID-19 to donate their plasma, as the act can save other lives.
“And you all, who have recovered from COVID-19, consult your doctor and when permissible, please donate blood, it can reduce a lot of problems.
“We know what problems our family members, friends have, till we are unwell,” he said.
Notably, a donor should not have any symptoms of COVID-19 for at least 14 days prior to plasma donation.
Tendulkar also expressed his gratitude towards the doctors for keeping him in the right frame of mind during treatment.
“…thank you so very much for your birthday wishes. It’s truly made my day. Last month has been a tough month for me. I was tested positive and had to be isolated for 21 days.
“Your prayers and good wishes, my family’s prayers and good wishes, friends, last but not the least, all the doctors and the staff with them, they kept me in a positive frame of mind and helped me recover. A big thank you to all of you,” he said.
