FIRST-TIME and lifelong donors alike ventured out to the Amanzimtoti Methodist Church where they donated blood to the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) on May 2.

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SANBS is an NPO licensed to provide blood transfusion services to the country. In a recent statement, the organisation said, “Blood is needed every day for trauma patients, individuals living with cancer, those with blood disorders and those undergoing surgery. New donors are essential to meeting this ongoing demand, especially as we approach winter, when blood collection numbers typically fall.”

If you decide to donate, you will have to complete a questionnaire comprising of your personal details, medical history and sexual lifestyle. An SANBS staff member will guide you along and emphasise how important it is to give honest answers. If you meet the requirements, another staff member will test your blood pressure, heart rate and haemoglobin levels, a measure of whether your iron circulation is sufficient.

Every so often you will have to squeeze a stress ball to keep your blood flowing.

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For plasma donation, the process remains largely the same as donating blood, however, it requires sizable, special machinery and can only be done at an official donor centre. The blood is collected via a sterilised needle before the machine splits the plasma from the blood and safely reintroduces the blood back into your bloodstream. Following the donation, you are advised to sit for 15-20 minutes to allow your blood pressure to settle.

“In South Africa, less than 1% of the population are active blood donors. With each unit of blood lasting only 42 days after collection, it is important for donors to donate regularly and for blood services to increase the donor pool. We encourage regular donors to bring a new donor along. The need for blood is constant and by introducing someone to the life-saving act, you can make a real difference. Together, we can ensure that South Africa’s hospitals are fully stocked as we prepare for the colder months ahead,” said the SANBS.

If you would like to donate blood, SANBS sets up at Amanzimtoti Methodist Church on the first Friday of every month. Alternatively, visit www.sanbs.org.za/donor-centres to find a donor centre near you.

How to get involved:

• Visit www.sanbs.org.za
• Call 0800 119 031
• Follow SANBS on social media.

The requirements are:

• Be in good health.
• Be between the ages of 16 and 75.
• Weigh at least 50kg.

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