The SANBS is always on a drive to encourage the public to donate blood to those in need.
While many people do donate blood some choose not to because of various misconceptions.
On August 12, Dave Jamieson completed his 401st blood donation at the Kempton Park Blood Donor Centre.
This milestone donation was celebrated by him and the staff at the donor centre.
ALSO READ: SANBS urges donors to maintain adequate iron levels
A cake and champagne were brought out to celebrate his blood donor journey that he started when he was a teenager.
“I started donating in 1972 when I was 19 years old. I am now 71. I initially donated as part of a group that was doing our national service, but after the first donation, I realised the importance of doing so,” he said.
He added that people must not be afraid to donate blood and the nurses that insert the needles are so experienced that normally you do not feel anything.
“By donating blood you can save up to three lives each time. Unfortunately, not even 1% of the SA population donates blood, which is sad. I’d like to encourage others to also donate.”
ALSO READ: Join a mission of saving lives by donating blood – SANBS
Jamieson added that this was certainly not his last donation and he will continue to donate for as long as his age and his health allow him to.
Donor relations practitioner Peter Mafela stated that the SANBS is on nine days’ stock cover which is good.
“It can only be maintained by donors who come through when they are due to donate again. We encourage people to continue donating at the various blood drives we have in different places and at our donor centres,” he said.
Additionally, he encourages the public to visit the Kempton Park Donor Centre to find out more about blood donation and the different blood products that can be donated to help save lives.
