Help SANBS spread cheer during the festive season
Although most people enjoy the holiday season, it can be difficult for patients who require blood and blood products to lead normal lives.
Blood stocks fluctuate throughout the year, and as we approach the holiday season, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) reminds South Africans of the importance of donating blood to help keep blood stocks safe.
Although most people enjoy the holiday season, it can be difficult for patients who require blood and blood products to lead normal lives.
“A large portion of our blood products are used to treat chronically ill patients. With December traditionally yielding low collections, this could jeopardize people’s ability to enjoy their holidays if we do not have the necessary blood products on hand when needed,” Thandi Mosupye, SANBS Senior Manager: Marketing and Communication, said.
To get ahead of this challenge, SANBS is encouraging Group O and B donors to donate a unit of blood before departing for their vacation destinations.
“We need to collect at least 3 500 units of blood per day to maintain safe stock levels; we’re approaching this season with stocks that are lower than we’d like, and we could face some difficult times if donors do not respond to our call for help,” Mosupye added.
Five days’ blood stocks are required to sustain the country’s need.
SANBS is urging all donors who are eligible to donate to take some time out of their day to give the gift of life. Each unit of blood donated helps to ensure that those who rely on blood donations can also spend time with their families.
SANBS launched the Change a Life campaign on Tuesday, November 8, to educate donors about platelet donation.
“Platelet donors are critical in assisting us in providing much-needed products for the treatment of patients with blood disorders, cancer, and organ transplant recipients. Cancer patients are highly reliant on regular platelet donations as part of their recovery,” Mosupye concluded.
To find a mobile blood drive or donor center near you, go to www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 9031. Follow the conversation on Twitter (@thesanbs), Facebook (@sanbs), and Instagram (@thesanbs).
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