In celebration of National Women’s Month, Sister Tshegofatso Selona, a regular blood donor, urges women to ‘fix each other’s crowns’, one donation at a time.

Found rolling up her sleeve at the SANBS Northmead Donor Centre, the New Modder resident said she committed to donating blood after witnessing how scarcity put the lives of others at risk.

“Particularly in the public sector, I’ve seen new mothers fight for their lives shortly after giving birth,” she said.

“A single donation of safe blood, every 56 days, enables a mother to cradle her child, a sister to return to her loved ones after an accident and a granny to heal following an operation. Fifteen minutes of your time has the potential of keeping families whole.”

Due to menstruation and hormonal changes, female donors are reminded of the importance of maintaining healthy iron levels.

Consumption of iron rich foods can assist in maintaining optimal iron levels, for a balanced lifestyle and life-saving blood donation.

It is recommended that donors consume a heathy variety of:

• Meat products
• Dark leafy greens
• Seeds, nuts, legumes and beans
• Tomato, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and green pepper
• Strawberries, oranges, grapefruit, sweet melon and watermelon.
• Avoid consuming beverages with meals, as this prevents iron absorption.

The Northmead SANBS Donor Centre team is waiting to welcome new and regular donors at the centre at 42 Fourteenth Avenue.

Eligible donors must weigh more than 50kg, be between the ages of 16 and 75 and lead a healthy lifestyle.

The centre is open from 10:00 to 18:00 week days and 08:30 to 14:00 on Saturdays.

For more information, call the SANBS on 0800 847 633.

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