Urgent call for blood donors as stocks run low
Durban North Blood Donor Clinic is desperately short of blood says clinic supervisor.
LIFE saving blood stocks across the KwaZulu-Natal are currently running low with just three days supply left said the South African National Blood Service (SANBS). According to Sister Jane Groom, clinic supervisor at the Durban North Blood Donor Clinic in Kensington Square, the clinic is desperately short. She said the aim is to have at least five days stock.
“Traditionally December is a difficult time for the SANBS, as we are unable to collect the 3 000 units of blood a day that is needed to treat patients because of the breaking-up of schools, people going on holiday and the universities being closed. We are appealing to the public to come out and donate blood and save a life.
“The greatest needs for blood are for patients who are terminally ill and rely on daily, if not weekly transfusions for their survival. We need more donors from all blood groups and types,” she said.
Groom added there were health benefits to donation blood.
“By donating blood the iron stores in the body are maintained at healthy levels. And the reduction in iron levels in the body is linked with low cancer risk.”
Northglen News also spoke to a regular donor who explained why he supports the SANBS. Local resident, Lou Zietsman, donates blood every two months saying it was his social responsibility.
“I know the festive season is an extremely tough time for the clinic and the SANBS. My blood could literally save a life, you or someone you know will need blood because of an accident, surgery, or an unforeseen event, it’s my social responsibility. I urge people to donate blood to save lives,” he said.
