Donate blood to save a life
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is appealing to donors to make their way to one of the closest blood drives or donor centres.
This is because of the approaching holiday break and the several road accidents it is traditionally known for, adding to the daily demand for blood during a time when blood collection is already difficult.
It comes about with regular school, tertiary institutions and business blood drives being virtually impossible to assist in sustaining a safe blood stock level to meet the demand.
Approximately 3 000 units of blood is still needed by patients daily during the holidays and the blood bank needs to collect the exact same amount each day or the total units of blood available will be depleted.
“We understand that many people will be busy or going on holiday over this period, but it only takes about 30 minutes of your time to make a huge difference to others in need of blood. Easter is often a time for family and donating blood is a great way of knowing you may be able to give someone else more time with their family,” said Vanessa Raju, National Communications Manager, SANBS.
If you are in good health and between the ages of 16 and 65, weigh more than 50 kilograms and lead a sexually safe lifestyle, make your way to your nearest donor centre.
To find out where your nearest donor centre is visit www.sanbs.org.za, call toll free 0800 11 9031 or sms your Name and post code of the area you live in to 31454 and an SMS with details of the nearest blood donor centre will be sent.
