National blood stock levels have fallen to a dire 3.2 days in advance of the Easter Holidays – a peak period for blood demand – and for people like aplastic anaemia patient Patience Thusi this could mean the difference between life and death.
Due to holiday closures of institutions like schools and workplaces – where many SANBS blood drives are hosted – fewer people will donate and this could affect vulnerable people like Patience gravely.
To meet the growing need for blood and save lives, SANBS must collect 3 000 units of blood units daily.
Three people can benefit from the various blood products created from each pint that is given in the selfless act.
Currently SANBS has a diverse donor base of over 490 000 people and although this is good, the organisation is always looking to recruit more members into its family of dedicated volunteers.
“We at SANBS hope that people who haven’t donated blood before will be inspired to take that big step by visiting one of our donation centres and embark on the fulfilling journey of ensuring the availability of this precious life-giving resource for those in need,” said Vanessa Raju, SANBS communications manager.
To read more on live saving stories visit the SANBS campaign page at www.giveatomorrow.co.za
For more information call 0800 11 90 31 or email to customerservice@sanbs.org.za
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