September (Heritage Month) is when SA’s people celebrate cultural distinctiveness and the things that make us unique while embracing the stories that unite us.

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) calls on everyone to celebrate something we all have in common – blood.

The SANBS needs type O and B donors to give blood to rectify declining stocks.

“We are experiencing low donations at the moment, and our hope is for SA to have a consistent blood supply,” says Thandi Mosupye, the SANBS senior manager of marketing, branding and communication.

“Today, SA has 2.7 days’ stocks. All donors due for donation can help increase stock levels,” Mosupye adds.

Expressing our heritage goes beyond taking pride in cultural roots – it is also about embracing the complex and multifaceted community that is SA. So, while you consider your unique celebration this Heritage Day weekend, help improve one of our SA’s vital resources, its people’s blood supply.

“Blood donation is a great way of knowing you might be able to give someone more time to observe more celebratory moments with their friends and families. We urge you to spare 30 minutes to make a life-saving difference this Heritage Month,” Mosupye concludes.

The SANBS has various blood drives around SA and additional weekend drives to ensure a stable blood supply during this trying period. It is only possible to meet the demand with the help of regular and committed donors.

Blood donations go beyond just the person who receives the blood – it is not just blood; it’s saving a nation.

Visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 9031 to learn where to donate blood.