Save lives by donating blood
According to the SANBS's website, blood stocks are critically low.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is urging community members to roll up their sleeves and donate blood.
Local donor relations practitioner Trude Gaarekoe reminds the public there is no substitute for human blood.
“There is no factory that can supply us with blood. Therefore, it’s of upmost importance that people donate blood. Without the assistance of blood donors, we won’t be able to assist those in need of blood. This can include women who have given blood, people that need to go for different kinds of operations and cancer patients, “she explained.
Your blood saves lives
According to the SANBS website, less than one percent of South Africans are active blood donors.
A unit of blood only lasts 42 days after donation and, for this reason, it is important for blood donors to donate regularly. Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.
Every unit of blood can save a minimum of three lives as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets.
SANBS aims to collect 3000 units of blood per day to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply in the health care system.
The safety of donors, staff and overall South African community is of utmost importance to the SANBS and extensive precautionary measures have been taken to ensure donor safety.
To become a blood donor, you must:
• Be between the ages of 16 and 75
• Weigh 50kg or more
• Be in good health
• Lead a healthy lifestyle
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient
The blood donor centre at the East Rand Mall is open from 10:00 to 18:00 Monday to Friday and Saturday from 09:00 to 15:00.
For more information, contact 011 826 5844 or email customerservice@sanbs.org.za
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