Become a lifesaver – donate blood
Each unit of blood has the potential to save three lives.
WITH winter on the way, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) fears blood stocks may fall below the required level to meet demand of 3,000 units per day.
Numbers of donors tend to drop during the colder months, due to people staying indoors and the increase in colds and flu.
The closure of schools also makes a marked impact on blood donor levels as high school pupils make up 21% of SANBS’ total active donor base.
“These young people are truly exemplary South Africans and while they are away from school to enjoy a well-deserved break, we could run into some shortages which will put our ability to serve the public under pressure,” says SANBS communications manager Vanessa Raju.
The SANBS urges all donors to honour their donation schedule and encourages other to become donors.
Local residents can become donors by visiting the South Durban donor clinic at Southway Mall, like Mogambery Govender and David Gait, who have made 152 and 102 donations respectively. Each unit of blood has the potential to save three lives.
Eligible donors are aged from 16 to 65 and must weigh at least 50kg, be in good health and lead a sexually-safe lifestyle.
For information on how to become a blood donor and to find your nearest donor centre go to www.sanbs.org.
