Be someone’s lifeline : Support a local blood drive this October
SANBS calls on the community to step up and save lives by donating at one of several convenient mobile blood drives across Boksburg.
The need for blood never takes a break and neither does the South African National Blood Service (SANBS). They’re calling on everyday heroes to roll up their sleeves and make a difference at upcoming mobile blood drives.
In just half an hour, you can help save up to three lives. Whether you’re a seasoned donor or thinking about giving for the first time, these mobile clinics make it easy and convenient to turn compassion into action.
Here are the mobile blood drives you can support this October:
• October 2: Witfield Square, from 11:00 to 16:00.
• October 2: King Fisher Square, from 11:00 to 16:00.
• October 13: Medicross Boksburg, from 09:00 to 15:00.
• October 22: Health Worx Boksburg, from 09:00 to 14:00.
• October 24: Hoërskool Oosterlig, from 09:00 to 14:00.
• October 25: Food Lovers Boksburg, from 10:00 to 15:00.
• October 29: Parkdene Boulevard, from 11:00 to 16:00.
If you’re unable to attend a mobile drive, you can also visit the SANBS donor centre at East Rand Mall, open from 10:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and 09:00 to 15:00 on weekends and public holidays.
Donors must meet these minimum criteria:
• Weigh at least 50 kg.
• Be aged between 16 and 65.
• Be in good health.
• Lead a sexually safe lifestyle.
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion.
• You can only donate every 56 days.
What does the process of blood donation entail?
You will complete a questionnaire concerning your personal details, medical history and sexual lifestyle.
This is followed by a one-on-one interview with one of the SANBS staff members who will check that you understand all the questions and the importance of giving honest answers.
You will be required to give consent as per the donor questionnaire.
Your blood pressure, pulse and haemoglobin level (a measure of whether you have sufficient circulating iron in your blood) will be assessed.
If you meet the requirements for blood donation you will then donate about 450ml of whole blood or 650ml of plasma.
All blood donation needles are sterile and used only once, before being destroyed.
Following the donation, we advise that you sit for 15 – 20 minutes to allow your blood pressure to settle.
Once you complete the donation you will be provided with a mini-pamphlet called a Thank You card.
Donors are advised that you keep this card to learn ways to minimise complications post-donation.
For information about hosting a blood drive, call Peter Mafela on 079 891 1169 or email peter.mafela@sanbs.org.za
Also Read: Keep rolling up your sleeve urges SANBS
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