Gift the gift of life this Valentine’s Day

SANBS encourages all regular and potential blood donors to step forward and share love by donating a pint of blood.
“At a time when we all miss those familiar cuddles and hugs from our loved ones, the longing to feel love and affection is needed. Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and if you are wondering what the perfect gift for your loved one is, the SANBS have the perfect suggestion.
“Why not take a break from those chocolates, roses, or cards and celebrate this year by donating blood? Yes, paint Valentine’s Day red with liquid love and donate blood to save up to three lives with your one unit of blood,” said local donor relations practitioner Trude Gaarekoe.
She encouraged the public to continue to donate blood, adding that a person needs blood every two seconds of every day.

“Blood will always be in demand. Since blood can’t be manufactured and has a limited shelf life, the supply must constantly be replenished by generous blood donors. In South Africa 3 500 units of blood are transfused daily to patients in dire need of blood and blood products yet only one per cent of the population donates blood,” Gaarekoe added.

She said the SANBS’s facility at the East Rand Mall was successful this season.
“I’m grateful to say that our donor centre at the East Rand Mall raised more blood during the festive season in 2020 than the previous year. We raised 450 units of blood from December 1 until 31,” Gaarekoe said.
She expressed her gratitude to those who donated blood.
“On behalf of the SANBS and patients who received blood, I thank those who made blood donations. They’re helping us to save about 1 350 lives,” she added.
The donor centre at the East Rand Mall remains accessible. Their operating hours will be from 8am to 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 3pm on Saturdays. Donors are advised to use entrance three.
Minimum requirements to be a donor:
• Be between the ages of 16 and 75
• Weigh 50kg or more
• Be in good health
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient
• Lead a sexually safe lifestyle
Visit www.sanbs.org.za or contact 0800 11 9031 to find out where else you can donate blood.
Follow SANBS on Twitter (@theSANBS), Facebook (@SANBS) and Instagram (@thesanbs).

Also Read: Donate blood and make the world a healthier place

Also Read: WATCH: SANBS in dire need of blood