Between them, they have saved over 2 500 lives. And they do not even know their names. Such is the gift of being a blood donor – that pint of blood is vital in emergency operations and during other medical procedures as there is no substitution for blood.
This was said at an intimate luncheon at Battlefields Country Lodge where blood donors were fêted for their selfless contribution. Four donors were presented with gifts to mark their 50 and 150 pint donations.
Phelelani Mkhize, SA National Blood Service’s zone manager, warned that the number of especially white donors was decreasing. He encouraged donors to ‘market blood donating to their family, friends and work colleagues’.
“Once you have done it you will feel good about yourself, trust me,” he said.
The SANBS is considered one of the top five safest blood services in the world, according to the United Nations. James Dlamini, donor committee chairperson, paid tribute to blood clinic staff who go out of their way to make donors feel comfortable and safe.
“Roll up your sleeves and donate,” was the message.
The four donors who were present to receive gifts were Peter Reed, Frikkie van der Westhuizen, Chris Keulder (all 150 pints) and Anand Thotha (50 pints).