POLOKWANE – Donating blood means playing an important part in saving people’s lives.

The Tshwane University of Technology hosted a blood drive on Tuesday (June 4) where students who are eligible to donate blood were given a chance to do so.

Keith Zwane, a donor recruiter highlighted that the blood drives aim to collect enough blood on daily basis so that they can save as many lives as possible. He added that it is very important for them to check first whether a person is eligible to donate because they are avoiding medical issues which might complicate things.

Becoming a voluntary donor means you are willing to give the gift of life because every unit of blood is precious and can save about three lives.

“Donating blood helps also in terms of knowing your blood type and also know the group that you can donate blood to and those who can donate blood to you as well,” Zwane remarked.

Michell Tebela said it is her first time donating blood: “I was always anxious because I didn’t know if the process is painful or not. Today I told myself that I’m going to donate and I overcame my fear”.

She also highlighted that she is happy that she is playing a major role in saving peoples lives.

SANBS gave the donors some goodie bags as a thank you gift to those who had the courage to donate blood.

Zwane highlighted some of the requirements for a person to donate blood which included weight of above 50kg, must be between 16 and 75 years in age, meet the medical assessment guidelines, must have had a snack or meal four hours before donating and lead a low risk lifestyle.

Donors are questioned first about their personal details, medical history and their lifestyle.