Nelson Mandela Day is a philanthropic occasion that challenges people all over the world and reminds them that it is “time to serve” and not just on July 18.
Although SANBS currently collects over one million units of blood annually at its 87 fixed donor centres and through daily blood drives managed by 100 mobile teams, there are instances when we fall short of the 3 000 units of blood required to meet daily demand, and this greatly impacts on the lives of patients.
“Traditionally blood reserves are low in July and, since it is Nelson Mandela Day, we would like to inspire the public to choose blood donations as their continued act of kindness,” said Vanessa Raju, national communications manager for SANBS.
“There is no better way to honour the life and spirit of a man who epitomised the precious value of life than to donate blood and save the lives of accident victims, mothers in labour, cancer patients and thousands of others,” added Raju.
Each unit of blood is separated into red blood cells, platelets and plasma and, depending on medical needs, these products are estimated to benefit three patients daily.
Blood donors are in the privileged position of giving somebody a second chance at life and this Mandela Month SANBS encourages South Africans to pump up their efforts and bleed for a purpose.
Brakpan residents can donate blood at the SANBS donor centre, at the Mall@Carnival (shop 84).
Also read
Free WiFi at all SANBS Donor Centres
