POLOKWANE – Annually the SANBS supplies over a million blood products to those in need. Blood products include platelets, plasma and red blood cells which in principle means that one unit (donation) of blood can save three people’s lives.

The SANBS is a non-profit, independent organisation that is rated among the top blood services in the world, are leaders in blood transfusion.

The SANBS have world-class testing and collecting protocols that ensure that the transfused blood is always of top quality.

Current weather conditions and a higher than usual demand for blood have sent blood stocks plummeting and the SANBS is facing a big demand for blood.

According to Itumeleng Matseke, SANBS Polokwane, the blood bank needs to collect 3 500 units of blood a day.

“We urgently appeal to all potential and existing blood donors that are due to donate to visit a SANBS blood donation site and donate a unit of blood. With little blood available on hand, this will have a severe impact on patients who rely on life-saving blood transfusions,” said Thandi Mosupye, SANBS senior manager: marketing, communication and brand.

“Whenever our blood stocks reach below three days, it places the lives of patients at risk. The lives of haemorrhaging mothers, newborn babies, accident victims, and thousands of other patients in need of a blood transfusion,” Mosupye added.

To become a blood donor, you must:
• Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years.
• Weigh 50kg or more.
• Be in good health.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle.
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.
• Commit to donating blood regularly.

Visit the following sites in Polokwane this week to donate:

Alternatively, download the schedule here: SANBS Polokwane Schedule