COLUMN: Yes, I am truly a bleeding heart

In celebration of World Blood Donor Day (June 14), I donated my 30th pint of blood.

In the grand scheme of things and considering the great need that exists for safe blood donations, this is a small feat, but a badge of honour I wear nonetheless.

My colleagues would attest that when I enter the office, I look like a walking billboard for the South African National Blood Services (SANBS).

The clanking of a steel straw in my nifty super-sized travel mug says that I took shelter at the Northmead Donor Centre, taking full advantage of their air conditioning during last year’s heatwave.

My cute lunch cooler is an indication that I made my mark and showed my heart during the national elections, in May, last year, while the pulsating beats emanating from my wireless headset serenades the fact that my contribution possibly saved lives during the Easter holidays.

If my math can be trusted, I have spent 15 hours with my feet up.

The needle inserted in my arm being a minor detail, because during that time nothing was expected of me; all that was required was a little time and 500ml of lifesaving blood.

Being a regular blood donor truly requires little to no effort yet can have a profound impact on the lives of three people.

By sacrificing no more than a half of your lunch break, you have the ability to give a child the opportunity to enjoy another day of carefree playtime, give a parent another chance to feel a loved ones’ arms wrapped around their necks or give a cancer patient the strength to fight a brave fight — a lifetime of memories can be created in the time it takes to enjoy a single cup of coffee!

Do you feel the beating of your heart in your chest? That rhythmic thumping is not only an indication that you are alive, it is the drumming declaration that you hold superhero abilities to save a life.

I fully acknowledge that the fear of needles plays a huge part in people walking wide circles around blood drive tents.

No one is truly fearless, but looking at the life-threatening uncertainties many are facing, it is awe-inspiring that a little prick could be the saving grace for another.

June is Blood Donor Month and I challenge our city’s quiet heroes to take a seat, roll up your sleeves and become the hero so many need.

The SANBS donor centre is on 2 Fourteenth Avenue, Northmead, and opens at 10:00 daily.

Eligible donors must weigh over 50kg, be aged between 16 and 75 and lead healthy lifestyles.

For more information, contact 011 897 4951.

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