‘Blood’y marvellous donation by uMgeni Park resident

WHILE blood stocks fluctuate all year, the period leading up to, and during the festive period, is when the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) faces its biggest challenge of blood stock shortages.

Dennis Ngongoma, public relations officer at the SANBS, said while the blood stock levels across the country were steady, the need for blood at the Durban North blood donor centre at Kensington Square was still in need of help.

“While the situation is not dire we are trying to build up our blood stock levels ahead of the festive season. We normally see a dip at this time so we are encouraging our regular donors and those who can donate blood to visit our centre in Durban North,” he said.

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One resident who heeded the call was uMgeni Park resident, Joan Orchard, who last week, made her 100th donation to the SANBS.

“I’ve been donating since 1969, so that’s 50 years and I was influenced and encouraged by my mother and father, who were regular donors. My father, who was from Holland, was AB+ so his blood could go to anyone and he always instilled the importance in me of why we needed to donate. It only takes 10 minutes of my time and you can save three lives which is amazing.

“What has made me proud is seeing my son and grandson pick up the mantle and also donate their blood on a regular basis. I plan to donate blood for as long as I can in order to make a difference to those who need it” she said.

To donate blood at the Durban North blood donor centre, contact 031 564 6070.

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