21-year-old Jan van den Berg often has to rely on the selflessness of others.
He is living with Fanconi anaemia, a genetic disorder which affects the bone marrow.
“Basically, my bone marrow is dying and isn’t producing blood cells as it should be. Also, my blood is leaving my body and it isn’t sure where it is going.”
Jan has to travel to Durban every three weeks for a blood transfusion, essential to keeping him alive.
“I was officially diagnosed in April this year, and it was scary. My parents looked for solutions and possible operations I could go for, but there is no cure. I can’t go for a bone marrow replacement procedure as I have no siblings, and even if I did, my disorder causes my genes to change so often that even if I did find a donor today, they would not be a match tomorrow.”
At that stage, he was employed by a textile company, but was compelled to resign.
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“Because of my condition, I could bleed to death in a matter of minutes if I were to cut myself or get hurt. After resigning, I was in a bad space of mind. That was before I started with the blood transfusions and Stucky Motors gave me a chance to work for them.”
Jan said being employed lifted his spirit, as it proved there were people who looked beyond his disorder.
“Not many companies would hire a person with my health condition, as I have to travel to Durban so often. I also cannot do a lot of physical work in case I get injured. It was this that left me feeling down and I am not sure how I can ever thank Stucky Motors for the job,” he enthused.
However, as Jan lives each day to the fullest, it would not have been possible without the major and lifesaving contribution of blood donors.
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“When people donate blood, they get a text message from SANBS thanking them for the donation. But, they do not know what it means for me and people like me who need it so much. But, a blood donation does not only help me.”
In the hope of saving lives, Remax and Prime Properties will host a blood challenge on November 29.
On the day, estate agencies are encouraged to visit either of the two companies to donate blood.
“There are a few estate agencies in town and they are all busy, but I would like if they can all become involved to donate on the day. You can always sell a property later during the day or the next day, but through this, you have the chance to save a life,” concluded Jan.
