In a remarkable act of generosity, resident Getruida Visser donated her 400th unit of platelets to the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) on February 2, at the Monument Donor Centre in Anthos Shopping Centre.

According to Donor Relations Practitioner Lebo Seatlholo, Getruida has been a committed blood donor for years and ensures she books her platelet appointments regularly, demonstrating dedication to saving lives.

“Platelets only last five days, so committed donors like Getruida are true lifesavers. SANBS thanks her for her selflessness; her contribution does not go unnoticed,” said Lebo.

She explained that blood has three components: red blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

“Platelets play a vital role in controlling bleeding, treating trauma victims, supporting patients with leukaemia and cancer, and aiding bone-marrow transplant recipients,” she said.

About the SANBS:

SANBS operates in eight provinces (with the Western Cape served by the Western Cape Blood Services) and provides crucial support to other countries in the Southern African Development Community region.

Annually, SANBS supplies over one million blood products and is rated among the top blood services globally, thanks to world-class testing and collection protocols that ensure high-quality transfusions.

Click here to learn how to become a donor or to find out more about the donation process.