The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) and the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) are appealing to eligible people to donate blood.
“Both blood services anticipate blood stock shortages leading up to the winter months. Blood stock levels tend to decline during the Easter period, as well as school holidays as donors make their way to their holiday destination and blood donation might then not always be top priority,” the WCBS Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Marike Carli, said.
With South Africans having travelled to various destinations this Easter long weekend, blood donations play a critical role in saving lives as it ensures hospitals are equipped to respond to emergency situations. These emergencies include patients undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, and childbirth-related complications.
In a united effort to address the growing demand for blood, the SANBS and WCBS recently held a nationwide blood drive where it called on citizens to step up as first-time donors. The drive aimed to recruit 800 new donors - a feat that was achieved.
The initiative not only helped replenish blood stocks but also raised awareness about the ongoing need for regular donations.
For regular donor Thembeka Madlala from Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, blood donation is personal.
“When I started donating blood in 2013, it was honestly just for the biscuits. But then I learned about the impact of blood donations, especially my blood type AB+, which is particularly helpful for people with cancer. This encouraged me to donate annually,” Madlala said.
Madlala's life took a turn in 2017, when she experienced an ectopic pregnancy and required an emergency blood transfusion.
“I needed four pints of blood, [and] it saved my life. That experience made me realise just how powerful and life-saving a donation can be. Since then, I have not stopped donating,” she said.
She encouraged all eligible donors to give blood, especially during high-risk periods like Easter.
“The blood you donate might save the life of someone you love. Let us commit to being regular donors. Your blood is a national treasure,” Madlala said.
The minimum requirements to be a blood donor are as follows:
• You must be 16 years or older and weigh 50 kg or more
• You must provide proof/picture of a birth certificate, ID or passport
• You must feel safe and ready to save a life.
• You must have has a meal and enough fluids to drink 2 to 4 hours before donating.
To find your nearest donor centre or mobile clinic, visit the SANBS or WCBS websites, or call SANBS toll-free on 0800 11 90 31. - SAnews.gov.za
