Rand Aid residents are record blood donors

Rand Aid Association has some residents whose hearts pump with concern for others.

Three of them show their compassion in a very practical way by regularly donating blood.

With World Blood Donor Day being marked on June 14, these retirees challenge other South Africans to join them in giving blood and saving lives on a regular basis.

It was a proud moment for Rand Aid Association when, at the South African National Blood Donors Association Awards, held at Gold Reef City on February 27, three Rand Aid residents received awards.

Mr Maurice Creswick of Elphin Lodge is in the Guinness Book of Records for donating the most units of blood in the world, a whopping 413 units.

Having turned 90 on April 25, Mr Creswick is also celebrated as the South African National Blood Service’s (SANBS) oldest and most consistent donor.

According to SANBS policy, donors over the age of 65 need to provide a doctor’s letter stating that they are physically well enough to be a blood donor.

At the presentation in February, the entire room of people stood and applauded Mr Creswick.

“As long as this keeps beating I will keep donating,” said Mr Creswick.

The other two heroes are from Rand Aid’s Inyoni Creek. Mr Graham Brokenshire has donated 350 units of blood and Mr Arthur Hadden has donated 156 units of blood.

For information on where you can donate blood, call the toll-free number: 0800 11 9031 – Monday to Friday 7am to 5pm or visit sanbs.org.za