Save three lives during the festive season
Only one per cent of South Africans are regular blood donors, and with the decrease in blood collections every year, the available blood is on a downwards curve..
“Traditionally, the December period is a difficult time for the South African National Blood Service (SANBS), as we are often unable to collect the 5 000 units of blood a day that is needed to treat patients,” said Silungile Mlambo, SANBS Chief Marketing Officer.
During the festive season, more blood is needed to treat the escalating number of accident and trauma victims, and it is peak time for ambulances and hospitals.
Only one per cent of South Africans are regular blood donors, and with the decrease in blood collections every year, the available blood is on a downwards curve. The SANBS has alerted and requested donors, especially O blood types, to come and donate, as the capacity for the O blood type is 46 per cent, with a whole blood stock for only five days.
You can donate blood at the following centres;
• Westgate Donor Centre, Westgate Shopping Centre
• Krugersdorp Donor Centre, 244 Voortrekker Road, Krugersdorp, • Florida Donor Centre, 31 Beacon Road, Roodepoort
• Northgate Donor Centre, Northgate Shopping Centre, Shop No 609 Corner Olievenhout and Northumberland Avenues, North Riding
The operating times for the donor centres are from 9am to 5pm on Monday to Friday. The Westgate and Florida donor centres will be open on Wednesdays until 7pm, and the Krugersdorp Centre is open on Thursdays until 7pm. All donor centres are open on Saturdays. Visit the SANBS website for more detailed information.
Blood donations go beyond just the person who receives blood, for it’s not just blood, it’s saving a nation. You can save three lives with one unit of blood.
