Locals support SANBS as blood stock levels go down

World Blood Donor Day was observed on June 14 and the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) indicated that they are currently experiencing serious blood stock shortages as a result of the current weather and a higher-than-normal demand for blood.
The recent blood bank clinic drive at the Boulevard Centre as well as St James Church on June 12, was successful with 35 units of blood collected combined and a total of 73 loves saved.
Robert ‘Robby’ Fitzpatrick (77) marked his 225th donation at St James Church. Mr Fitzpatrick is passionate about saving the lives of those in need by donating blood, he has been a blood donor for 51 years and has given 225 units of blood to date. “I want to be remembered for the life I gave as well the life I had lived”, he said. He also added that his first blood donation was at the very same hall in 1972 and he has never looked back since.
Regular donor Philippus Van Rooyen marked his 46th donation and stated that the public should get involved in donating blood because there is a great need for blood transfusions especially with the high rates of accidents on the roads.