Share some liquid love on Valentine’s day
Donate blood at SANBS to save lives this Valentine’s day.
Red roses, chocolates, romantic picnics and dinners are just some of the ways that people demonstrate how much they care for their loved ones over Valentine’s Day.
For those who choose not to go the conventional route to celebrate this occasion, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) encourages people to share liquid love.
Mothers in labour, cancer patients and accident victims are just some of the people who are often in desperate need of life-saving blood transfusions.
Blood donors are anonymous heroes who are the reason for thousands of people getting a second chance to live.
“Valentine’s Day is a chance for us to show love and generosity.
“This act of kindness is even more special when it includes people that we may never meet,” said Thapelo Mokoena, SANBS chief marketing officer.
Each unit of blood that is given could benefit up to three recipients.
The precious liquid, donated by unpaid volunteers, is split into various products like platelets which are pivotal in treating patients who suffer from aplastic anaemia.
In order to donate blood a donor must be:
- Between the ages of 16 and 65.
- Weigh more than 50kg.
- Lead a safe, sexual lifestyle.
Donors are encouraged to eat something prior to their donation.
To meet the growing need for blood and maintain good stock levels, SANBS endeavours to collect a minimum of 3 000 units daily and this requires collaborative efforts to achieve.
“We understand that having a needle inserted into your arm is not an easy thing to do.
“For those who are afraid of needles or can’t stand the sight of blood, there are other ways in which they can support us in reaching our goal.
“We challenge them not to watch from the side-lines, but to get in touch with us to find out how their spare time could be spent helping us to save lives,” said Mokoena.
For more information call 080 011 9031 or email to customerservice@sanbs.org.za
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