Seven months ago the first-ever West Rand Blood Drive was held and with eager donors’ blood pumping, wanting to know when the next one will be, organisers have confirmed a date – Friday 29 November.
On the previous blood drive, considered as round one on Wednesday 10 April, more than 100 people in the community, which included the general public, celebrities, public departments, numerous businesses and political parties, committed to donating blood.
Leon Marinus, director of ATKA SA Cross Channel Marketing Specialists in Wilro Park confirmed, “We would like to invite you for a morning of networking, fun and the chance to give the gift of life come the end of November”.
The event is sponsored proudly by ATKA SA, Roodepoort Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Rocci) as well as the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).
Asked how they will go about it a bit differently for the second round, Marinus replied, “We are hoping to make it bigger and better than before and to improve on it every single time we do this. We are planning to attract a number of celebrities, media houses and local businesses.
“We have arranged for live music and marching bands, as well as finalists from Miss and Mrs Roodepoort to attend. SANBS has given their full support and will be here to service all the blood donors.
“SANBS also said it would be Bring a Friend Day. So bring a non-blood donor to donate and you and your friend will receive a gift.
“We as a company want to give back to the community and people, and so many times people forget that by simply giving your blood you are saving someone’s life. Especially now before the holiday season and when we know blood reserves will be tested we want people to donate and give that gift of life.”
Organisers are expecting hundreds of people and have put up posters and ran add campaigns.
“We got in over 70 pints of blood in the first drive, and this time we aim to achieve more than 100 pints,” Marinus added.
In order to donate blood one needs to be 16 years of age and weigh more than 55kg. Also make sure that you have eaten and that you have not taken any antibiotics or have flu.
Visit www.westrandblooddrive.co.za for more information.
