This was the message put across to blood donors on 18 July at Stanlib in Melrose Arch.
The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) teamed up with the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) to host a blood drive in support of Nelson Mandela Day.
The blood drive took place at Stanlib from 10am to 4pm.
Blood donor and Stanlib employee, Walter Hirzebruch said he tries to give blood whenever the blood services run a blood drive on the premises.
SANBS’ public relations practitioner, Sini Subrayen said although many people wanted to do something for Mandela Day, they did not know what to do.
“What better way to spend your 67 minutes than by saving a life. That is what giving blood is about – saving a life,” he said.
“In total, the SANBS needs five to seven supplies of blood every day and right now we are running at a shortage of only two supplies each day. Today our target is to get 150 units of blood.”
Elize Joubert, Cansa’s acting CEO said, “As part of our 67 minutes to the community, we are taking action in a positive way by showing our support for SANBS. We’re inspired by the late Nelson Mandela who was a prostate cancer survivor. Blood is vital for the treatment of cancer patients, as well as patients needing blood transfusions, so we encourage all to come and donate blood.”
Cansa also exhibited at the venue and demonstrated how people could reduce the risk of getting cancer.
Subrayen said, “We’re excited to team up with Cansa for this year’s Mandela Day. Madiba did so much for us, and we can give back by doing good and getting support for the blood drive.”
To become a blood donor you must be:
- Between the ages of 16 and 65
- Weigh more than 50kg
- Have eaten a good meal before donating
- Lead a sexually safe lifestyle
Details: visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 119 031.
