There’s no end to the benefits of donating blood for those who need it. According to the South African National Blood Services (SANBS), one donation can save as many as three lives because every unit of blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets.
SANBS states that less than 1 per cent of the population are active blood donors and that a unit of blood only lasts for 42 days after donation, that is why it is important to donate blood regularly.
They aim to collect 3000 units of blood per day to ensure sufficient blood supply and last week, the blood bank visited Eldorado Park to encourage residents to donate blood.
- It is a struggle to get into the retirement villages – [also read]
Mkateko Mavundza, a SANBS staff member who was present on the day, said that the blood stock was currently at an all-time low, with only two days of blood supply available.
He said“It is very important for people to donate blood because if our blood bank dries out we won’t be able to save lives.”
A first-time blood donor, Craig Bezuidenhout said, “I’ve always wanted to do this but out of fear I stayed away. Today I feel good knowing that I will be able to save a life. There’s nothing to be afraid of, the staff here were very patient, friendly and helpful, they made me feel comfortable.”
Another donor, Tyrrhenian Morris said that donating blood made him feel good.
“It’s so fulfilling knowing that my blood will possibly save three lives. This feeling will definitely drive me to keeping donating, I want to do this on a regular basis,” he said.
SANBS has paired up with the Mandela 100 Global Citizen Festival and together both organisations aim to motivate young South Africans to donate blood in order to earn tickets to the festival which will be taking place on December 2 at the FNB Stadium.
Follow Us Here:
Catch the latest news by visiting our other platforms:
