Blood levels are critically low

SECUNDA – The South African National Blood Service (SANBS)’s blood stock levels are critically low and Ms Dot Prinsloo, donor relations practitioner, urged residents to donate blood at the donor centres in Secunda and Trichardt.

The SANBS launched a thought provoking #NoStereotypes campaign aimed at raising awareness and sparking conversation around issues attached to discrimination based on stereotypes which further separate South Africans.

Ms Prinsloo said the campaign is anchored by a thought-provoking film, which highlights some of the many stereotypes that exist in the South African context using real life people who have experienced moments of being stereotyped in their lives.

This film was released on digital platforms on Wednesday, 17 March.

Mr Ravi Reddy, SANBS’ chief executive officer, said: The harmonious strand of a society is rooted in embracing differences while acknowledging the value in the uniqueness and diversity of people thriving through unity and for a bigger cause – like saving lives through blood donation.

“Through this campaign, we intend on giving recognition to the millions of people who donate blood voluntarily to save lives.

“We are urging everyone to acknowledge the value of everyone’s contribution in saving lives and to further encourage people, to be a part of the saving lives movement.”

According to Ms Prinsloo, one blood donation can save up to three lives and through the #NoStereotypes campaign, the SANBS hopes to promote blood donation and to demystify stereotypes that are currently breaking our society.

Donate blood at Secunda or Bethal’s branch of the SANBS. Contact the branch in Secunda at 017 631 1652 or the branch in Bethal at 017 647 5598.