Become an active blood donor and help save lives
It is important for blood donors to donate regularly as a unit of blood only lasts 42 days after donation.
STAFF at the Hillside Mall SANBS urge residents from the south Durban area to become active donors so their reserves can be replenished and more lives can be saved ahead of the festive season demand.
Also read: SANBS in critical need for blood donations
Less than 1% of South Africans are active blood donors. This is according to the South African National Blood Service (SANBS), a non-profit organisation that collects and distributes blood to patients in need, saving thousands of lives each year.
Clinic supervisor Annalyn Daniel said people must develop a habit of donating blood in order for the SANBS to collect sufficient blood to ensure that in cases of emergency, quality blood is always available.
“Thousands of patients would die daily if there is insufficient quality blood in stock. When you donate blood, you give patients the gift money cannot buy or science cannot create. A unit of blood only lasts 42 days after donation and, for this reason, it is important for blood donors to donate regularly. Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.
“Every unit of blood can save a minimum of three lives as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets. Blood stocks fluctuate throughout the year, and with just a short while until the festive season is in full swing, we are pressed for time to ensure that we have enough blood to sustain the country’s needs,” Daniel added.
Also read: Bluff trio make in excess of 400 blood donations
SANBS aims to collect 3 000 units of blood per day to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply in the healthcare system.
Phlebotomist Siyamthanda Khanyile said there are many SANBS blood donation centres open to the public.
“We are committed to ensuring that donors are happy and comfortable while they donate. Blood is a precious resource that anyone can give to someone in need. With each donation, you can save three lives. We also have awesome gifts for those who donate,” said Khanyile.
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