The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is celebrating Heritage Day on September 24 by hosting a blood drive at Terra Nova Mall.
The Round Table Secunda 231 is partnering with the SANBS for the Bleeding for Change blood drive. The community can donate blood between 10:00 and 15:00.
Calvin Parker of the Round Table encouraged the community to celebrate Heritage Day in the best possible way – by saving lives.
“We want to host a blood drive that makes a real difference,” said Parker.
“For every pint of blood donated, you will get a free beer or cold drink, our way of saying thank you for being a lifesaver.”
The SANBS’ theme for September is ‘Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down theirs for freedom’.
Dot Prinsloo, SANBS Teksa branch honour relations practitioner, said: “We remind South Africans this Heritage Month that our true legacy lies not only in the traditions we honour, but also in the lives we preserve.
Although there is a daily urgent need for blood in South Africa – a mother during childbirth, a child battling cancer, or a victim of an accident – less than 1% of the population donates blood.
The Bleed for Change blood challenge will run until February next year.
“Why bleed for change?” asked Prinsloo. “Blood cannot be manufactured; it can only come from another human being. This makes every donor an unsung hero.”
Sifiso Khoza, SANBS reputation and communications manager, said: “Donating blood is one of the simplest, yet most powerful acts of humanity.
“Bleed for Change is about showing South Africans that you do not need to be rich or famous to save a life, you just need to be willing.”
Riaan Greyling, branding manager at Round Table Southern Africa, said: “As Round Table Southern Africa, our mission has always been about service, community, and impactful change.
“Through Bleed for Change, we want to demonstrate that young South Africans have the power to make a life-saving difference. Blood donation is not just a medical act; it’s a legacy of kindness and ubuntu that strengthens our communities.”
Visit Terra Nova Mall on September 24 to donate blood.
The SANBS is searching for an ambassador in the Secunda and surrounding areas. The ambassador should be someone who regularly receives blood.
If you are interested, contact Prinsloo at SANBS at 017 631 1652.
