Ron Robinson remembered for lifelong dedication to blood donation and public health

Guyana has lost a legend with the passing of Ron Robinson, a devoted blood donor and a key figure in the country’s public health campaigns, according to Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and former Minister of Health.

In a moving tribute, Dr. Ramsammy highlighted Robinson’s significant contributions to the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS), where he became an icon for his selfless dedication to blood donation. Robinson, who donated more than 100 units of blood over his lifetime, was recognized as a champion blood donor and played a critical role in promoting voluntary blood donation across Guyana.

“With his passing, Guyana has also lost an avid blood donor. Ron was family at the National Blood Transfusion Service,” Dr. Ramsammy said. “He was a simple, humble man, but found a way to quietly and graciously make a difference in the lives of his Guyanese sisters and brothers.”

Dr. Ramsammy reflected on the transformation of Guyana’s blood donation system during his tenure as Minister of Health, a period marked by the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS. At the time, Guyana’s blood donation system was heavily reliant on coercive methods, collecting fewer than 2,000 units of blood annually.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

By 2010, however, through public health efforts and a shift toward voluntary donation, annual blood collections surpassed 10,000 units. Robinson’s contributions to this shift were critical.

“His communication experience and talents became an asset for public health,” Dr. Ramsammy noted.

“Ron’s major contributions to the education and awareness programs in public health contributed to a ‘golden era’ for public health’s education and awareness programmes.”

Robinson’s dedication to public health was evident not only in his personal commitment to blood donation but also in his tireless work to raise awareness about the importance of voluntary donations.

Robinson’s legacy extends far beyond his work with the blood transfusion service. A well-known figure in radio, television, and theatre, he was regarded as one of the best in the region.

His contributions to the creative arts, particularly to Guyana’s “orange” economy, continue to inspire.

Dr. Ramsammy also reflected on Robinson’s long-time presence in radio, noting that he had been a “giant presence” in the lives of those in his generation. “For almost all of my more than 65 years of radio experiences, Ron was a giant presence,” he said.

In closing, Dr. Ramsammy expressed his sorrow over the loss, offering condolences to Robinson’s family and friends.

“Guyana has lost a legend. I have lost a friend,” he said. “We pray that Ron walks well in heaven.”

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