Dirk van der Westhuizen and Frederik Oosthuizen have jointly dedicated 109 years to donating blood and saved about 1 824 lives in the process.
Their loyalty, and that of many committed donors, have saved lives for many years.
The SANBS is grateful for this support. As they face critically low bloodstock levels, the SANBS is reaching out to more South Africans to help save lives.
“We appeal to the public who are able and willing to donate much-needed blood. We are in the midst of a bloodstock crisis as levels continue to drop consistently,” said Siemi Prithvi-Raj, the executive of donor services, marketing, communication and brand.
“The frigid weather has affected the levels of donations, and that is why we call on all willing and able to donate a unit of blood,” she added.
Compounding an already difficult situation is the closure of schools and tertiary institutions.
“Winter is synonymous with low blood collections when schools and universities close for a break, and the donors we rely on for our much-needed donations dissipate.
“While SANBS had hoped for better collections this year, the situation remains challenging.”
The SANBS calls on South Africans who aren’t yet donors to go to their nearest mobile blood drive or donor centre to give blood.
In the spirit of Mandela Month, let us continue the legacy of giving.
ALSO CHECK: SANBS calls for donations amid dwindling stock
New donors will ease the pressure on the existing donors and help maintain blood stocks at acceptable levels throughout the year.
“Whether you bring a friend along or invite us to host a blood drive at your business, residential complex, community centre or local church, you can help to make a difference. Every drop counts.”
SANBS must collect at least 3 500 units of blood daily to meet patients’ needs. The units of available blood deplete further when this target is not reached.
To find your nearest donor site, visit www.sanbs.org.za or call toll-free 0800 11 9031.
