SANBS urges matric class of 2015 to continue giving blood
Each unit of blood has the potential to save three lives.
THE South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is appealing to the 2015 matriculants and other pupils to continue to donate blood regularly.
Nationally, people between 16 and 19 constitute 21 per cent of SANBS’s total active donor base, which is approximately 490 000. The 2015 matriculants and other pupils have taken the bold step to join the many people who go out of their way to donate blood, which in turn saves numerous lives.
To ensure that there is sufficient blood stock available, SANBS needs to collect 3 000 units of blood every day. Each unit of blood has the potential to save three lives.
SANBS chief marketing officer, Thapelo Mokoena, said: “These young people are truly exemplary South Africans. They have made the decision to sacrifice their time to donate a unit of blood to somebody they may never even met. We are proud of them for their willingness to give blood while working hard to excel in their academics and overcome whatever other life challenges they may face.”
Mokoena added that the pupils’ consistent participation in blood drives is made possible through carefully-considered partnerships with schools throughout the country. Various governing bodies, principals, heads of department, teachers and parents play a big role in encouraging young people to donate blood.
Arranging blood drives at schools is not an easy task because the demanding academic schedules and extra-curricular activities must not be compromised. Last year, the blood service hosted blood drives at 1 161 schools and it invites more schools to become partners and host a blood drive every two months.
Mokoena hoped that the matriculants will continue to donate even though they have exited the basic education system.
“Whether they join the workforce, enrol in a tertiary institution or take a gap year, it will give us great joy to see them saving more lives from wherever they are and to remain part of the SANBS family for years to come,” added Mokoena.
Learn how to arrange your own blood drive by calling 0800 119 031 or send an e-mail to customerservice@sanbs.org.za.
