Needle-shy donor gifts 300th pint of blood

TOTI library received a certificate of merit when the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) visited for their monthly blood drive on Friday, 3 March.

Among the masses were two donors whose generosity has saved an unbelievable number of lives.

Errol Broxall (62) donated his 300th pint of blood, saving a total of 900 lives. Errol had donated his first pint of blood at the age of 17 and has continued to – not religiously – ever since. The estate agent enjoys flying planes, sailing yachts and is an avid photographer. However brave he is to have made it to this golden number. Especially as he admits he is afraid of needles.

“I do this to save lives, I would’t get a needle stuck in me for any other reason,” said Errol.

“I’ve never been able to watch them put the needle in.”

Surprisingly, after donating 135 litres of blood over the course of time, Errol has never had any problems with his health, but rather when asked the name of his doctor replied, “I don’t really have one.”

Another Toti resident, Jacobus Wijnmaalen (58) seated himself down for his 150th donation. Jacobus started donating in his teen years, but interruptions such as serving in the army put his tally on hold. Jacobus’ generous 65,7 litres of blood donated have saved a total of 450 lives.

“I actually feel more energetic than usual during the days following my donation,” said Jacobus.

Amanzimtoti library was presented with a certificate of merit. On the first Friday of every month the SANBS offers a blood drive at the local library. Last year the total of donations made at this venue was a whopping 674 units. Donors agree that it’s the amazing staff of the community clinic that keep the donors coming back.