Now’s the time to donate blood
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is experiencing yet another difficult time with regards to blood collections.
Almost 40 per cent of the blood the service collects comes from schools and universities, and due to the holidays, they’re unable to host these blood drives.
“This, together with many people who also take a break, blood stock levels are impacted significantly,” said Terrance Pillay, Benoni SANBS donor relations practitioner.
“SANBS needs to maintain a stock level of five days at all times by collecting 3 000 units of blood per day to meet the demand of the thousands of patients who are reliant on blood transfusions for their survival.”
In the spirit of giving the SANBS is appealing to members of the public who meet the minimum blood donor requirements, especially blood donors who may have missed a blood donation, to help boost supplies by committing to donating blood this festive season.
In order to become a blood donor you must:
• Weigh at least 50kg
• Be between the ages of 16 and 65
• Lead a safe sexual lifestyle
• Be in general good health
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.
Visit the SANBS at Northmead Blood Donor Centre, at 42 14th Avenue, Northmead or contact them on 011 425 4943.
“We thank the community of Benoni for their continuous support and commitment during the year, this has enabled us the opportunity to meet to needs to many patients within our area,” said Pillay.
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