Springs exceeds blood donation target by 46 units
With the festive season something of the past and most people back at work, local blood donors can get back into the routine of donating blood at The Avenues Blood Bank centre.
“The Blood Bank needed to procure 520 units in December and managed to collect 566 units. We are grateful to the community for the dedication and commitment,” says Terrance Pillay, SANBS donor relations practitioner.
Instead of giving something up this year, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) asks people to give blood.
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SANBS needs 3 000 units of blood to be collected every day across the country to maintain a five-day supply and avoid shortages.
“We thank the community for their continuous support and commitment during the year. This has enabled us the opportunity to meet the needs of many patients within our area,” says Terrance.
According to SANBS statistics, every 35 seconds someone in South Africa needs a blood transfusion.
“We would like to encourage those people who have never donated blood to embark on the journey of saving lives and join the ‘BE THE 1’ donor movement,” says Terrance.
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Each donation takes only about 30 minutes and can save the lives of up to three people.
The donation process is simple. First, fill in a questionnaire concerning your health and lifestyle. The sister will then check your blood pressure and take a drop of your blood to make sure you are not anaemic and that it is safe for you to donate.
After a short personal interview with you, and if all is well, a qualified sister will take your donation.
“All needles and equipment are sterile, used only once and then discarded.
“After your donation, you will enjoy some cookies and juice,” says Terrance.
Members of the public who meet the minimum requirements to give the gift of life by becoming regular donors are urged to visit the blood bank as soon as they possibly can.
To become a blood donor, you have to be between 16 and 65 years of age, weigh more than 50kg, lead a sexually safe lifestyle, be healthy on the day of donation and have eaten a good meal before donating.
