For many lovers in the capital of southeastern China's Fujian Province, when they offer their heart, they are not just speaking figuratively.
Foregoing the traditional roses and chocolates, many in Fuzhou chose to donate blood to celebrate the Valentine's Day this year.
According to a worker with the blood donation station at Dongjiekou in Fuzhou, an increasing number of couples came to donate blood on Valentine's Day over the past several years.
"More than 10 couples came to donate blood this morning despite the heavy rain. Donors last year even reached over 120 people, dozens of whom were lovers," said the worker.
Zhang Jun and his girlfriend Huang Dan were a couple of those selecting blood donation as a special gift on the lovers' holiday.
Zhang said that after buying flowers and chocolates for his girlfriend on Feb. 14 for several years, he considered it no longer fresh to present each other gifts.
"I think Valentine's Day is a day for our hearts to feel. Last year, my girlfriend and I agreed to donate blood on each Valentine's Day," Zhang said.
Huang Dan took the blood donation not only an innovation for romance, but also a meaningful aid that can save another person's life.
"I feel happier than receiving any gift," said Huang.
(Xinhua News Agency February 15, 2003)
