Stories and science from the blood network.
Field notes from coordinators, donor guides, and the data behind Nigeria's blood supply.
Get the Spark dispatch
One short email when we publish something worth your time — donor guides, field notes and blood-supply data from across Nigeria.
No spam. Unsubscribe any time.
Practical blood-donation writing for Nigeria
The Spark Blood blog explains the things donors and patients actually ask about: whether you are eligible, what happens during a donation, how blood types match, why sickle cell patients need repeat donors, and how to prepare so your appointment is not turned away.
Articles are grouped by category and tagged so you can follow one thread — eligibility, blood science, patient stories, or network news — without wading through everything. Each article shows an estimated reading time and links to related pieces at the bottom.
If you are new here, start with the eligibility quiz to see whether you can donate today, then read up on blood group compatibility in the learning library. Once you have donated, the referral programme and digital stamp card help you bring others in and keep your own streak alive.
Eligibility and preparation
Weight, age, haemoglobin, medication and travel rules, plus what to eat and drink before you go.
Blood science made simple
ABO and Rh explained without jargon, universal donors and recipients, and why compatibility mistakes are dangerous.
Patient perspectives
What blood means for maternal haemorrhage, trauma, cancer treatment and sickle cell care in Nigerian hospitals.
Network and policy
How voluntary donation compares to family replacement, and what it takes to build a reliable national supply.