South African National Blood Services calls on community for support
South Durban residents have the opportunity to help save lives by donating blood at The Bluff Towers SANBS donor centre.
THE South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is urgently appealing to South Africans to donate blood during National Blood Donor Month due to a shortage of O+ blood. Currently, the stock level for O+ blood is alarmingly low, with only 3.8 days’ supply available. In contrast, B+ blood stocks are stable at around 5.0 days’ supply.
Also read: Blood drives increase as holidays approach
As part of National Blood Donor Month, SANBS is celebrating the life-saving contributions of blood donors and encouraging more people to donate. This year’s observance is marked by SANBS’ impactful #WeAreThePulse campaign, which aims to emphasise the vital role of blood donors in saving lives and supporting community health.
World Blood Donor Day, celebrated on June 14, and established by the World Health Organisation, raises awareness about the need for safe blood and blood products, while expressing gratitude to voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their invaluable contributions. SANBS underscores the essential role that blood donors play in sustaining the health and vitality of communities.
“Each year, thousands of South Africans require blood transfusions during medical procedures and emergencies and for ongoing medical conditions,” said Thandi Mosupye, SANBS senior manager of Marketing, Communication and Brand.
“World Blood Donor Day stands as a beacon of hope and unity, reminding us of the profound impact that individual generosity can have on the health and vitality of our society. We see this day, not just as an occasion to celebrate but as a powerful call to action. It urges us all to step forward, to give something of ourselves and to become part of a life-saving network of heroes who fuel the pulse of our nation,” said Mosupye.
RTL8 Security Group, in collaboration with The Bluff Towers SANBS donor centre, will be hosting a blood drive on June 16 and 17 to help alleviate low stock levels but to also do their part in participating in National Blood Donor Month.
To be eligible to donate blood, individuals must be between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh more than 50kg, and be in good health. Eligible donors can also visit The Bluff Towers SANBS donor centre, which is open from Monday to Sunday. For detailed visiting hours, refer to www.sanbs.org.za.
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