National Blood Service holds Egoli East Donor for Life Awards

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) held the Egoli East Donor for Life Awards ceremony at the Gold Reef City Casino Bullion Room on February 25.

The awards recognised donors who continue to help save people’s lives in South Africa.

Jacqueline Le Roux, the chairperson of the Zone Donor Committee, said it was two long years since they were able to get together and celebrate their collective success, which was made possible by guests who are milestone donors.

“It was over 80 years ago that blood transfusion first became a possibility in Southern Africa. In that time, life-saving transfusions have continued even under the threat of the HIV pandemic and Covid-19.

“Many lessons were learnt during these times, and we are comforted by the support of our dedicated donors who have helped us to navigate these and other unique challenges.

“While technology has progressed significantly since then, no artificial substitute for human blood exists yet. As we celebrate the SANBS’ 21st anniversary this year, we celebrate the donors’ consistent dedication which has been the strongest pillar supporting the existence of our world-class organisation.

“Year after year, our biggest challenge remains the recruitment and retention of enough blood donors to help meet the increasing demand. We need new donors, especially among the youth, who we know to be future blood donors. We know that we can rely on all of you to be ambassadors for blood donation by recruiting new donors among your friends, colleagues and family members.”

Le Roux said it is crucial to reflect on the successes and challenges of the past if they are to appreciate where they are headed.

“Covid-19 hit our blood collection efforts significantly, but as of August 2022, we have seen blood stock availability of over five days. Our zones across the country have worked tirelessly to launch promotions and initiatives to boost blood stocks, and they have been well received.

“Locally, the SANBS continues to provide safe blood products to over one million patients annually. In the selfless spirit of our donors, we do not limit our capacity to do good. Your blood donations continue to save lives, even outside our borders, most recently having helped Helene Mesene and her baby from Namibia.

“An outstanding partnership between the SANBS and the Namibian Blood Transfusion Services resulted in the life-saving transfusion of the new mother following her C-section at the Rundu Intermediate Hospital. Those two pints of blood that could well have been donated by someone here today ensured that an infant gets to grow up with a healthy mother.”

Le Roux said looking to the future, they are excited to launch some major initiatives.

These include:

• Project Blood Wing: “The team worked with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) to get all the necessary approvals and certifications. After two audits this year, the regulators are satisfied the necessary processes and controls are in place. We are proud to announce that SANBS was awarded a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) Operating Certificate (ROC).

The SANBS is the first organisation in South Africa to obtain a Beyond Visual Line-Of-Sight (BVLOS) RPAS certificate, enabling an organisation to deliver goods using a drone.

• “With the SANBS Donor App you will be able to find your nearest donation sites, book appointments and complete the medical questionnaire a day before your planned donation at your convenience and avoid the queues. This electronic platform and the move to a paperless environment will help you to maintain your data on the platform yourself.

• “The delivery of our first smart fridge, known as Project FIFI (First Igazi Fridge Initiated). The pilot of this flagship innovation will run at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital in Johannesburg. Operating like a vending machine, healthcare workers use a unique code sent to them by the SANBS to access cross-matched blood from the fridge.

“These projects will increase our efficiency and improve our service delivery to our stakeholders. The SANBS’ strategy and plans for the future are directly aligned with taking advantage of emerging opportunities and challenges in our sector of business.

“In closing, I acknowledge the incredible efforts of our donor staff, who are stellar ambassadors for the SANBS. You go out every day, in all types of weather, to collect precious blood. You have one of the most difficult jobs, and you do exceptionally well in often difficult circumstances. Keep up the excellent work.

“To you, our esteemed guests, we applaud your achievement and look forward to walking your journey with you as you reach many new milestones. It is our promise to you that your precious gifts of life will continue to save lives and add value to the health care system in South Africa and beyond.”

Antony Purnell, who donates at the Alberton donor centre, said he donates because there is always a shortage of blood.

“I started donating blood in 1974 in Zimbabwe, and I moved to South Africa and continued donating. Donating blood saves lives. I am proud to have received my 350th donations award,” said Purnell.