Parents and staff of Little Ashford Pre-School hook up their arms for the red
SANBS blood stocks critically low and every pint helps potentially save a life
In education and medicine, providing life and a future is a shared goal.
Creating a convenient platform for parents and staff to get involved, Little Ashford Pre-School held a blood drive on Tuesday afternoon, November 16. Not limited to just the Little Ashford family, banners were placed alongside Barry Hertzog Drive to entice the public into the school to give up a little of their life-sustaining red glue.
The pre-school now has almost 70 children, overseen by Principal Deidre Allen, four teachers, a teaching assistant and a cook to keep tummies full. “This is our way of making a difference in our community. We hope to provide this opportunity regularly to contribute to bulking up the life-saving supplies,” said Deirdre, herself getting her veins out for the cause.
The staff, not shy of needles as they too have been fully vaccinated, were first to get their blood drawn. Many parents followed the example and kept the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) staff busy for the afternoon. “We must donate because there is a shortage. It is important because there is always someone in need,” said parent Donni Smith, who donated with her husband Mpumi.
SANBS staff were from the Marlboro donor centre which is critically low on stock, having been given permission to suck the blood from Roodepoort residents by their West Rand colleagues. The blood drive was manned by four SANBS employees, all registered medical professionals. As well as completing the necessary paperwork and doing the precision needlework, the all-male nursing staff were there to ensure adequate care for anyone who passes out or becomes distressed.
Those who braved the needles were rewarded with the standard nutritional top-ups of biscuits and fruit juice, as well as a bonus activity pack with colouring-in pencils and SANBS-themed activities. Additionally, donors received free Adventure Golf tickets, just in time for the school holidays. Deidre concluded, “It is an easy way for parents to donate while their kids play. It is exciting that all staff got involved; they really came together as a team.”
