Your blood saves lives
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) had shown a significant increase in the blood stock over the festive season.
ALBERTON – “Donors showed their support during this traditionally difficult time for SANBS. We managed to get through this period without going into a shortage; for this we say a big thank you to all who gave to unselfishly,” said Ms Vanessa Raju, Communications Manager of SANBS.
“However, there has been a massive decline in donations as we entered January 2015. This resulted in the days covered dropping to one point six days. This is significantly lower than the five days blood stock that is needed to meet the demand in the country. To achieve this safe level of blood stock, SANBS would need to collect 3 000 units of blood nationally on a daily basis.
“Now that 2015 is well under way, we would like to remind donors to adopt blood donation as the one action to take this New Year. This year’s campaign focusses on the SANBS slogan ‘Your Blood Saves Lives’. We would like to encourage all our donors to donate blood on a regular basis. In order to recognise the tremendous efforts from our committed donors, SANBS will be giving a special edition sports bag to all donors who achieve four blood donations this year,” Raju added.
The minimum requirements to be a blood donor: be between the ages of 16 and 65 years, weigh minimum of 50kg, be in general good health and live a safe sexual life style.
Should you meet the above requirements and wish to find out where you can donate blood, please visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 9031.
