SANBS needs more blood donors

September brings with it the dawn of spring, which often symbolises new beginnings for people after suffering the cold winter season.

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) looks forward to the warm weather, ushering in Heritage Month where South Africans celebrate and share their diverse roots and ancestries through practising cultural traditions, performances and rituals.

“Through this year’s Heritage Month theme, living heritage, SANBS encourages everyone to celebrate something that we all have in common regardless of our diverse backgrounds.

“Celebrating cultural distinctiveness and all the things that make us unique, everyone is encouraged to join the family of donors who are dedicated to giving others the gift of life through the ceremonial act of blood donation,” said Dr Karin van den Berg, medical director of SANBS.

30 minutes is all it takes

In the drive to consistently provide safe blood to patients across the country, the SANBS appeals to blood donors to continue to make a difference.

“Blood donation is a great way to give someone else more time to enjoy more celebratory days and moments with their friends and families. We urge you to spare 30 minutes of your time to make a life-saving difference this Heritage Day,” he said.

Expressing heritage goes beyond taking pride in cultural roots, it is also about embracing the complex and multi-faceted community that is South Africa.

While you consider your unique celebration of Heritage Day this year, make time for an act of kindness and help the SANBS to sustain one of our country’s most treasured resources, our nation’s blood supply.

“Together, we can create a living heritage by committing to donating blood regularly. With one blood donation, you can save up to three lives,” said van den Berg.