Bleed for a purpose
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is appealing to all South Africans to honour the late Nelson Mandela’s legacy and give the gift of life, blood.
Blood reserves are traditionally low in July and since it is Mandela Day on Saturday, SANBS would like to inspire the public to choose blood donations as their continued act of kindness.
Mandela Day is a philanthropic occasion that challenges people around the world and reminds them that it is “time to serve” and not just on July 18.
This would instil in blood donors a culture of and making a difference throughout the year by donating blood regularly.
SANBS currently collects over one million units of blood annually at its 87 fixed donor centres and through daily blood drives managed by 100 mobile teams.
Still there are instances when they fall short of the 3 000 units of blood required to meet demand and this greatly impacts on the lives of patients.
“There is no better way than to donate blood and save the lives of accident victims, mothers in labour, cancer patients and thousands others,” says Vanessa Raju, SANBS spokesman.
Each unit of blood is separated into red blood cells, platelets and plasma, and depending on medical needs, these products are estimated to benefit three patients daily.
Blood donors are in the privileged position to give somebody a second chance at life and this month SANBS encourages South Africans to pump up their efforts and bleed for a purpose.
Connect with us:
Have a story? Send Anna Robertson an email on annar@caxton.co.za or contact her on 011 812 4820.
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter as well as our journalists @SpringsJournOne and @SpringsJournTwo.
For news straight to your phone, invite us on BBM – 7EFABEF1.
