Raubenheimer marks 215 platelet donations

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, Benoni resident Sarita Raubenheimer is proving that making a difference does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it simply means rolling up your sleeves.

Raubenheimer recently reached an incredible milestone, making her 215th platelet donation at the Northmead South African National Blood Service (SANBS) Donor Centre, a commitment she has maintained for more than two decades.

Originally from the Western Cape, Raubenheimer began donating blood when she was 31 after registering as an organ donor at 18.

After moving to Benoni in 2011, she was encouraged to become a platelet donor, a decision that would shape years of dedicated service.

Now the chairperson of the Benoni SANBS donor committee, Raubenheimer has become a passionate advocate for blood donation, encouraging others to give the gift of life.

Having witnessed the impact cancer has had on friends and those around her, she said she understands how vital platelet donations are for patients.

“Everyone knows, on Tuesdays my routine starts a little later because I’m donating,” she said.

Even during the Covid-19 lockdown, Raubenheimer continued donating, believing that patients’ need for blood never stopped.

She also uses simple comparisons to explain the donation process.

“I tell people it’s like changing the oil in your car. Your body replaces the blood you donate, just as fresh oil replaces old oil. Don’t wait until someone close to you needs a donor before deciding to help,” she said.

Ahead of Women’s Day, Raubenheimer encouraged women to continue making a positive impact in their communities.

“Women’s Day should not be the only day we are kind to women. Why not do it every day of the year? Make a difference,” she said.

She will be hosting a Blood drive on August 29th at 9 Tenth Avenue, Northmead starting from 09:00 to 15:00.

“We will have a lot of activities lined up for this blood drive and I personally invite everyone to come and have fun while making a change!” Raubenheimer emphasised.

SANBS spokesperson Nthakwana Lepheane said milestone donors like Raubenheimer play a vital role in ensuring a safe and reliable blood supply.

“Regular blood donors are essential to helping SANBS save lives every day. Every donation has the potential to save up to three lives,” Lepheane said.

The organisation said Women’s Month is an opportunity to celebrate women whose compassion and generosity continue to make a lasting difference.

“We celebrate every woman who takes the time to donate blood and give the gift of life. Their generosity, compassion and commitment to saving lives make a lasting difference, and Sarita is one of them,” Lepheane said.

Lepheane encouraged first-time donors not to let fear stand in the way of helping others.

“A few minutes of courage can give someone else a second chance at life,” she said.

Residents interested in donating blood or hosting a blood drive can visit www.sanbs.org.za or follow SANBS on Facebook for information on upcoming donation drives.

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