Students host blood drive amid shortage
Both UniHigh and UniCollege students donated blood to the South African National Blood Service.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) paid a visit to students at both UniCollege and UniHigh last week amid a blood shortage.
Students like Annemie Smit (23) faced her fear of blood and needles for a worth cause on 4 March. Annemie told the News that she is a regular donor and plans on donating half a litre of blood frequently.
“There are so many people who need blood and if I am healthy and able to give why shouldn’t I,” she said.
Natalie Franklin, UniCollege’s marketing manager, told the News the students try to do as many charitable projects as they can each year. Another group of students delivered dog food and products to the Husky Heaven Rescue later on that day.
Renette Schonken, a Plebotomist, a specialist clinical support worker who takes blood samples from patients, said that one person’s blood donation could save three lives.
“After the blood is drawn, SANBS takes it to a laboratory for testing. Thereafter things like red blood cells from the blood can be used for various purposes,” she said.
The SANBS is currently experiencing low blood stock.
You can donate blood at the Monument Donor Centre at Monument Shopping Centre. Contact them 011 954 6804 / 0229.
“We are not at a critical point yet, but that’s exactly what we would like to avoid,” Lebo Seatlholo, SANBS Public Relations Officer, said.
Also read:
• Time to lend a helping hand (or arm)
• UniCollege hosts fun run for charity
