Blood brother

Brij Bhushan Midha, owner of the Lucky Market on Rock Boulevard, has been recognized over 300 times for his charitable services. He has been a member of Rotary International for 20 years and has donated blood 29 times. He shows me a stack of photos and in every one he is smiling humbly, receiving an award from respected members of Indian government. He has been honored twice by the Chief Minister of the state of Haryana. Though he’s only lived in northern Nevada for one year, he’s already taking the initiative to make a difference here. To help Midha with his efforts to organize blood drives, call 544-8135.

What kind of services are needed in India?

People always need blood, but you see people who need help everywhere. In the winter season, there are people staying in the railway stations, and we have donated blankets, clothes and shelter to them. We have also organized free operation camps 17 times. I have also worked to provide Hepatitis B vaccinations.

Tell me about your work.

I am from a small city in India called Fatehabad, but I was also the District Rotary Representative for three states in India from 1991 to 1992, so there were many people over a large area that I helped provide services for. In 1997, I organized a blood group with 233 volunteers who provided blood for hundreds of needy patients. I was chairman of the Blood Donation Society in my city, and I am also a lifetime member of the Red Cross.

What brought you to the United States?

I attended a Rotary International meeting in San Antonio, Texas, and liked the country very much. I also have an uncle here in Reno, and I thought I could continue to do social services here. There is a need for social services everywhere.

Have you faced extra challenges here?

No, I am not having many problems. It [feels] new to try and get things started here, but I’ve done it before, so it will not be difficult. I have already met with members of United Blood Services, and they showed an interest in what I want to do, but I want to get a team together first.

Are you still active in Rotary here in Reno?

Yes, I attend the meetings at the Holiday Inn every Friday. For the year of 2000-2001, I was awarded the Service Above Self Award, which is the highest honor in Rotary. In 96 years, only three people from India have ever received this award. In Rotary, there is a four-way test to make sure you are doing the right thing: “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendship? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?” I always follow these guidelines.

How does helping others make you feel?

Happy. It is a very good feeling, especially in my blood.