Vella Nyoni
POLOKWANE – THE South African National Blood Services (SANBS) was at the Limpopo Mall last Wednesday for a blood drive. According to Alan Maswime, donor recruiter, this was their second visit to the mall this year.
“There are a lot of people who need blood daily, the only way we can save their lives is when people come to donate blood. The blood we collect is used to help cancer patients, accident victims, newborn babies who need blood transfusions and people who have had surgery, so it is literally a matter of life and death,” said Maswime.
Maswime said the requirements that had to be met in order to donate blood were: the individual must weigh 50kg or more, lead a safe sexual lifestyle and not be on any form of medication. Anyone between the ages of 16 and 65 could donate blood. About 470ml of blood was taken when you donated.
Tshegofatso Maleka, a regular blood donor said he donated blood because he wanted to save lives. “I want to be able to help people who need blood because one day it will be me and I want someone to do the same for me. I wish everyone would donate blood, it is the right thing to do,” said Maleka.
Petro Gouws said the reason she did this was specifically for the young children.
“I have two kids of my own and this is something that’s close to my heart, I am going to keep donating. I love the experience,” said an eager Petro.
Veronica Mashamaite said she always donated and would keep doing so as long as there were people who needed blood. “I will always help where I can, it is the right thing to do,” she said.
