Blood stock levels running low
Visit the Secunda blood service in Horwood Street, or contact them at 017 631 1652 or the Bethal blood service in the Spar Centre or contact them at 017 647 5598.
The blood stock level of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) nationally is only 2.7 days. The holiday season often presents a challenge to the SANBS to maintain adequate blood supply.
This is a result of regular donors going on holiday, schools, workplaces and universities closing for the festive time and the recent fluctuating weather conditions causing mobile blood drives to be cancelled.
The management team of the blood service in Secunda urged the community to support them by donating blood.
The blood service is open during load-shedding times as well and donors can still donate blood. It only takes 15 minutes to donate blood.
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People can donate Apheresis and source plasma at the blood service in Secunda and source plasma at the blood service in Bethal.
To donate blood, a person must be between 16 and 75 years old, weigh more than 50kg, be in good health and lead a safe lifestyle.
SANBS encourage people to become regular donors who donate blood at least three times yearly.
Thandi Mosupye, the SANBS’ spokesman, said: “Let us come together in this new year, not just in celebration, but in an act of giving that can truly make a difference. Our blood is a gift that costs us nothing but means everything to those in need.
“As we celebrate the joy of the new year, let us also be the reason for someone else’s joy. Your blood may be the greatest present someone receives this season – the gift of life. Join us in making this new year a meaningful one.”