Share the gift of life this Christmas
Blood donations usually dwindle in December, because regular donors are often unavailable during the holiday period, leaving blood supplies at critical levels.
NEWCASTLE – Spreading Christmas cheer is more than bright decorations and buying gifts for loved ones.
It is about making a difference in someone’s life.
This festive season, Newcastillians have the opportunity to give the gift of life by supporting the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).
Read: SANBS young blood drive
Blood donations usually dwindle in December, because regular donors are often unavailable during the holiday period, leaving blood supplies at critical levels.
In preparation of the holiday period, Remax and Prime Properties held an ‘On Show’ showdown on Tuesday, November 29, to raise awareness about the importance of donating blood, and staff could donate blood.
Jan van den Berg, who is living with Fanconi anaemia addressed donors at the two venues.
Fanconi anaemia is a genetic disorder which affects the bone marrow, making it critical that Jan has a blood transfusion every three weeks to stay alive.
“When you donate blood, you get a text message from SANBS thanking you for the donation, but you do not know what it means for me and people like me who need it so much. I want to thank all of you for taking the time to donate blood,” he said.
Spokesperson for SANBS, Shavani Sewpaul said Remax collected a total of nine units of blood, while Prime Properties collected seven units.
“These two business collectively saved 48 lives. SANBS salutes you,” she said.
Also read: Seeing red for a cause
To collect blood for December and January, SANBS will hold its annual Big Bleed at the SANBS premises at Newcastle Mall from 9am until 6pm on December 14.
Be sure to do your part and help save lives.
