The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is appealing to potential and existing donors to donate blood ahead of the festive season.
The organisation made this call during the Handy Hardware/Avenues Residents Association/Super Cops community blood drive on November 12 in Northmead.
Stock of blood groups O and B are particularly low.
“Such weekend drives are important for us. I would like to call all eligible donors to keep on donating especially now because our O blood stock is low,” said Edwin Majoro, of the SANBS.
A total of 70 people braved the wet conditions and made their contribution by donating blood and the SANBS made the day fun with prize and voucher giveaways for donors.
“I want to thank every single donor that came out to support this cause. I also want to thank all the companies that sponsored a prize or voucher. They all contributed to a good cause of saving lives this December,” said Antoinette van Wyk, of Handy Hardware.
The SANBS needs 3 500 units of blood a day and has appealed to all donors that are due for donation to visit an office in their vicinity to donate blood and save a life.
“It’s important that we keep on donating blood especially during this time because of the demand due to accidents that tend to happen.”
“We are appealing with everyone in the community to help us. There’s a shortage of blood and it tends to be a problem for us at this time because the companies and schools we work with are going on recess soon.
“Those who are due for donation or anyone who would like to donate can come to our office on 42 Fourteenth Avenue in Northmead.”
First time donors Nicolette van Staden and Koos Potgieter expressed their excitement after helping save a life.
“It was lekker,” said Koos.
Nicolette said it makes her happy knowing that she’s helped someone in need.
“It makes me feel pretty good because I’ve helped someone get better. I’ve saved someone’s life,” she said.
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