The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is facing severe bloodstock shortages, to the extent that there may not be sufficient available blood for patients in need.
The SANBS needs to collect 3 500 units of blood a day and is urgently appealing to all potential and existing blood donors that are due to donate, to visit a SANBS blood donation site, to donate their precious unit of blood.
A blood donation gives patients a second chance with their loved ones. Another Christmas to remember, another summer holiday at the beach and another birthday celebration.
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To become a blood donor, you must:
• Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years
• Weigh 50kg or more
• Be in good health
• Lead a healthy lifestyle
• Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient
• Commit to donating blood regularly.
To find out more about where you can donate blood, visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 90 31. Connect with the SANBS on Twitter @theSANBS, Facebook @SANBS and Instagram @thesanbs.
The SANBS is, furthermore, appealing to the public to make venues available for blood drives. Suitable venues include spaces accessible and open to the public.
All willing and eligible donors are urged to visit their nearest mobile and fixed donor centres.
If you can host a blood drive, visit the SANBS’ website and book a blood drive.
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