LAST month, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) put out an urgent appeal calling for plasma donations. One person who answered that call was Durban North resident, Guy Hankinson.

The 34-year-old recently donated plasma for the 120th time and hopes to inspire others to donate their life-saving blood to the SANBS.

Read also: SANBS needs plasma donors

“I’ve been inspired by my grandfather who has donated more than 600 times for plasma and platelets. You can donate plasma every two weeks to a maximum of 24 times a year and there’s always a need. The staff at the Durban North donor centre are always so helpful and friendly which always helps. I often take my laptop with me while I donate so I’m able to respond to emails when needed.

“The recent unrest really set the SANBS on the backfoot with so many donor centres looted or damaged so the need is vital. I donate plasma and platelets and with the latter, there is only a five day shelf life, therefore the good months can’t carry the bad months which is why it is so important to give back and help out where we can. I urge residents to donate blood and plasma when they can to give the donor centre a boost. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components – red cells, platelets and plasma – which can be used individually for patients with specific conditions,” he said.