Dirk van der Westhuizen and Frederik Oosthuizen have collectively dedicated 109 years and saved at least 1 824 lives.
SANBS executive of donor services, marketing, communication and brand, Siemi Prithvi-Raj, said he appreciates the loyalty of the two donors and that of many other committed donors.
“We are in the midst of a bloodstock crisis as levels continue to drop consistently,” said Prithvi-Raj, SANBS executive of donor services, marketing, communication and brand.
“The frigid weather has affected the levels of donations, and that is why we are calling on all willing and able to donate a unit of blood.”
Compounding an already difficult situation is the closure of schools and tertiary institutions.
“Winter is synonymous with low blood collections when schools and universities close for a break, and the donors we rely on for our much-needed donations dissipate. While SANBS had hoped for better collections this year, the situation remains challenging,” Prithvi-Raj said.
SANBS is especially calling out to South Africans who aren’t yet donors to make their way to their nearest mobile blood drive or donor centre to give much-needed blood.
“In the spirit of Mandela Month, let us take it into our hands to continue the legacy of giving. New donors will help ease the pressure on the existing donors and help maintain blood stocks at acceptable levels throughout the year.
“Whether you bring a friend along or invite us to host a blood drive at your business, residential complex, community centre or local church, you can help to make a difference. Every drop counts.”
SANBS must collect at least 3 500 units of blood daily to meet patients’ needs. Each day this target is not met, the total units of available blood deplete further.
To find out where your nearest donor site is, visit www.sanbs.org.za or call toll-free 0800 11 9031.
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