As the Easter Holidays approach, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is calling on South Africans to donate blood, highlighting the critical need to maintain adequate supplies during the long weekend.
The SANBS has set a national target of collecting 6 000 units of blood by today, Saturday, 28 March 2026, as part of its “Answer the Call” campaign.
The organisation warned that while many people will be travelling or spending time with loved ones over the long weekend, hospitals will continue to treat trauma patients, perform surgeries, and care for individuals undergoing cancer treatment and managing chronic illnesses, all of which rely on a steady blood supply.
“In hospitals across South Africa, there are patients lying in hospital beds whose recovery depends on something many of us can give in just 30 minutes, blood. Behind every blood donation is a life waiting to be saved,” the SANBS said.
Public holidays often place pressure on blood stocks as fewer donors visit collection centres, increasing the risk of shortages.
One example is Lezhanne Hartwell, where blood donors became the lifeline that helped save her young daughter’s life. Her 18-month-old baby girl was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma in October 2020, and required a blood transfusion shortly after.
“I would like to thank all blood donors because of your generosity; you have contributed to saving our little girl's life,” Hartwell said.
Her daughter received a 200ml transfusion at Donald Gordon Hospital - an experience that changed Hartwell’s perspective on blood donation. Despite being afraid of needles, she has since committed to donating blood regularly after realising how vital it can be for families facing medical emergencies.
SANBS noted that each unit of donated blood can save up to three lives, yet public holidays often place pressure on blood stocks as fewer donors visit collection sites.
The national blood service has encouraged both regular donors and first-time donors to take time on 28 March to help ensure that hospitals have the blood they need throughout the Easter period.
Young donors like Sibongeleni Hlongwane, a 23-year-old from Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, are already answering that call.
Hlongwane began donating blood at the age of 17 while still in school and continues to do so as a way of giving back to society.
“Donating blood is a meaningful way to help others. I encourage more young people to get involved and participate in community blood drives,” he said.
SANBS Senior Manager for Donor Relations, Monique Schreiner, said Easter is a time associated with giving and renewal.
“By donating blood, South Africans can give a gift that lasts far beyond the holiday, the gift of life,” Schreiner said.
Schreiner emphasised that the blood donation process takes about 30 minutes, but the impact can last a lifetime.
To participate, South Africans are encouraged to visit their nearest SANBS donor centre or mobile clinic on 28 March. To find your nearest donor centre, call the SANBS toll-free number on 0800 11 90 31 or visit the organisation’s website at www.sanbs.org.za - SAnews.gov.za
