Donate blood urgently to help save lives

Traditionally, the month of September is a difficult time for the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).

Owing to preliminary exams and preparation towards the final quarter of the year, blood drives at schools and universities are generally not possible at this time of year.

This, together with poor turnouts at company and organisational blood drives, has placed immense pressure on the blood stock levels.

“SANBS needs to maintain a blood stock level of five days at all times, by collecting 3 000 units of blood per day to meet the demand of the thousands of patients who are reliant on blood transfusions for their survival,” said Vanessa Raju, communications manager of SANBS.

“However, at the moment we have only 1.6 days of blood stock available and we are concerned that, should this continue, we are looking at a major crisis as we head towards the festive season.

“It is only with the help of the selfless blood donors that we are able to help this situation.

“We have implemented a cut-back approach, where we are not able to meet requests from doctors.

“What this means is; should a doctor request four units of blood, SANBS may be able to offer only two units, and this approach will continue until the blood stocks recover.”

SANBS is encouraging all regular donors and those who have made a conscious decision to join this cause of “saving lives” not miss out on their next donation date.

This is also a reminder to all donors who selflessly donated blood on Mandela Day, and to remember that they are due to donate again and continue making every day a Mandela Day.

Members of the public who meet the minimum requirements to give the gift of life by becoming regular donors are urged to visit us as soon as they possibly can

Minimum blood donor requirements:

• Aged between 16 and 65 years.

• Weigh 50kg or more.

• Good health.

• Lead a sexually safe lifestyle.

To find out where your nearest donor centre is visit www.sanbs.org.za, call toll free 0800 11 9031 or SMS your name and the postal code of the area you live in to 31454 and SANBS will SMS you details of your nearest blood donor centre.