SANBS appeals for plasma, platelet donors to step up

Billy Makalele’s infectious laugh can be heard throughout the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) Northmead donor centre when he diligently sits for his by-weekly plasma and platelet donation.

Following several brushes with death, the Daveyton resident sought ways to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.

“God gave me life at times when the odds were against my survival. Therefore, I must show my gratitude by sharing that which gives me life,” he said.

Over the past eight years, he made 192 specialised blood product donations, which, in turn, were used for cancer treatment, among other life-threatening diseases.

Donning a pink ribbon to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Makalele spends two hours in the comfort of the SANBS recliners, joking and telling the phlebotomists colourful tales.

Demand
Donor relations practitioner Terrance Pillay says the centre has 68 registered regular specialised product donors.

“The demand for these products is high after their successful use by oncologists. Plasma and platelet donations have become invaluable supplementary therapies for patients undergoing chemo and radiation therapies,” he explained.

Pillay said the plasma is the liquid part of your blood. The red and white blood cells and platelets lie suspended in it.

“These comprise about 55% of your body’s total blood volume. Plasma also contains antibodies, clotting factors and proteins, such as albumin (which keeps fluid from leaking out of blood vessels into other tissues) and fibrinogen (a protein involved in forming blood clots), which are essential for optimal bodily function.

“Chemo and radiation therapies damage these elements, and it is, therefore, vital these are substituted to ensure patient well-being.”

Due to their composition, specialised blood products have a shelf life of no more than five days.

Harvesting plasma and platelets is a procedure called plasmapheresis, during which the plasma is separated and collected. The red and white blood cells and the platelets are returned to the donor’s body.

“The number of people fighting cancer is increasing daily, and for this reason, we appeal to eligible donors to commit to making regular life-saving donations,” said Pillay.

“Saving a life has never been easier. What’s more, the products are universal and can, therefore, be used by anyone, no matter their blood group,” Makalele added.

“All you need are a couple of hours every second week to make a difference in the life of someone fighting cancer.”

How to become a plasma and platelet donor
• Potential donors are subjected to a pre-test. The results are available within two days.

• Products are preferably collected from those with blood groups A and AB. However, SANBS can collect from other blood groups.

• Pre-tests and donations are collected strictly by appointment.

• The donation could take up to two hours.

• The pre-screening and donation are free.

• Donations can be made every 14 days.

• Specialised donations are safe and do not present serious side effects.

“Bring a book, chat with other donors and enjoy a cup of delicious SANBS coffee,” said Makalele, with another burst of laughter.

“Spend your time at the SANBS however you feel fit, but rest assured you will have spent your time doing God’s work.”

For more information about blood and specialised product donations, see www.sanbs.org.za or to book an appointment at the Northmead donor centre on 011 897 4951.

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