‘Joburg residents, your blood is needed desperately’
SANDTON – The SA National Realtors Group will be hosting a Valentine's Day SANBS Blood Drive to give back to the community.
The SA National Realtors Group in Sunninghill has taken the initiative to host a Valentine’s Day-themed blood drive on 19 February in Hamilton Park, Bryanston with the help of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).
As part of group’s Making a Difference community initiative, Gert van Zyl began brainstorming the idea for the blood drive last year with his colleagues, James Gresty, principal of the Sandton branch, and Elizabeth Dumagude, agent assistant.
“We decided to do something for the community and educate community members about donating blood. Only 1 per cent of South Africans are actually donating, so we decided that we need to do something for a good cause that can build the community in the process,” said Van Zyl.
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It was decided that Hamilton Park was the perfect place to bring the community together. “I think it’s also a convenience factor because people in this area won’t have to drive very far to donate. They’re already there, walking their dogs, having a relaxing afternoon,” Gresty explained.
“They’re not sure of the process, so our aim is to educate people,” explained Dumagude. Adding that because of this, many people are afraid of donating blood because they do not know how it works or what is expected of them.
According to the blood bank’s website, the current blood supply will run out on 28 January. In order to supply the nation, the SANBS aims to collect 3 000 pints (1 419.5 litres) of blood a day, but with only 1 percent of the nation donating, it’s a difficult feat, making the blood drive initiative all the more vital.
“We already have some companies getting involved – one is actually planning a bit of a show with traditional music and dancing. Knead Bakery will be giving out vouchers to early arrivals on the day who donate,” Van Zyl said.
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The Making a Difference committee is in talks with other businesses but welcomes any other companies that wish to play their part in the blood drive.
“It’s important for us to get involved and give back to our community. I mean, how much do we actually do for other people? During one of our educational talks with SANBS, a speaker mentioned that people who are scared to donate should think about it this way – what happens when it’s your child who needs blood? Will you be scared of that needle then? So donate and help those who really need it,” added Van Zyl.
The committee encourages community members to join them in rolling up their sleeves, donating and enjoying a relaxed Sunday morning at Hamilton Park from 10am until midday.
