Be a blood donor hero(ine)
As South Africa celebrates Blood Donor Month in June, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) would like to acknowledge the ordinary South Africans who selflessly give the gift of life to strangers.
“South Africa is well acquainted with heroes,” said Silungile Mlambo, national marketing manager for SANBS.
“Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Nkosi Johnson, Natalie du Toit – they are widely fêted and acknowledged. But there are scores of other unacknowledged heroes in South Africa, the thousands of ordinary men and women who regularly donate blood, selflessly and without expectation of a reward or recognition.
“Blood Donor Month, and World Blood Donor Day, which is celebrated globally on 14 June, is for them.
“It gives us the opportunity to acknowledge their gift and to say thank you.”
The theme for World Blood Donor Day 2017 is blood donation in emergencies.
While the global campaign is aimed at helping people in emergency situations, such as natural disasters and trauma situations, incidents of trauma make up only a fraction of the demand for blood in South Africa.
“By far the greatest proportion of blood is required in other situations, such as in childbirth and for cancer patients,” said Mlambo.
“In South Africa, blood shortages occur most often during school holidays and they are predominantly caused by lower collections of blood as a result of schools and universities closing and the demand staying consistent.”
Mlambo called on all South Africans to donate blood.
“One simple action can can make a huge difference,” she said.
“For the donor, it’s a few minutes every 56 days. For the recipient, it’s helping them live so they can create a lifetime of memories.
“Become a donor, it’s not just blood. It’s saving a nation.”
The Brakpan Donor Centre is situated at shop 84 in Mall@Carnival.
Contact the centre on 011 915 6686 for more information.
Also read:
Residents support SANBS during Blood Donor Month
What happens to your blood donation?
Your blood can save three lives
