You can help with blood donation

AS WE enter the last quarter of 2014 the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has already been experiencing critical shortages over the recent weeks.

It is also a time when people are focussed on their final exams or are hard at work to ensure they end their year with success, so little time is available for much else. However, the SANBS are hoping that donors who are due to donate, as well as those who meet the minimum requirements, are able to find the time to make a difference to the lives of others and donate blood.

“We are grateful to the many, who always heed to our appeal for blood but often crisis are inevitable if donors are not available to donate.” says Vanessa Raju, Communications Manager at SANBS.

“These crisis often occur due to fewer Group O blood collections. Group O blood is known as the universal donor and can be given to patients of any other blood group, making it the most sought-after blood type.” added Raju.

To become a blood donor – you need to:

Be between the ages of 16 and 65.

Weigh more than 50kg.

Be in good health.

Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.

Lead a sexually safe lifestyle.

Mokopane residents can donate blood at the SANBS centre in the Mokopane Mall. For more information contact the call centre on 0800 11 9031 or visit the website www.sanbs.org.za.