Blood donors save lives before the holidays
An opportunity to donate blood presented itself at Seadoone Mall, where the South African National Blood Service set up a station.
IT WAS a welcome reprieve from the summer heat for blood donors as the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) set up at Seadoone Mall on December 12 for one of the last opportunities of the year to give blood and save lives.
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The SANBS is an NPO and a leader in blood transfusion across the country.
The organisation prides itself on being the lifeblood of South Africa’s healthcare system. It operates a vast network of donor centres, including over 70 fixed centres and over 100 mobile collection sites daily. It sets up at Amanzimtoti Methodist Church on the first Friday of every month.
“At the South African National Blood Service, we believe that the gift of blood is a shared act of humanity,” said Thandi Mosupye, senior marketing manager.
Criteria to donate blood
If you are between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, and are in good general health, lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you may be eligible to donate blood.
The process takes around 30 minutes including capturing donor details, a questionnaire and blood pressure and iron testing. You are able to safely donate every 56 days. Donors are encouraged to eat a good meal around three to four hours hours before donating and to increase their fluid intake before and after donation. For more information, visit www.sanbs.org.za, or contact 0800 119 031 to find out where you can donate blood.
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