The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) calls on members of the public to mark Heritage Month, celebrating a culture of giving something everyone has in common X blood. The clarion call is to help supplement the dwindling blood stock in its reserves.
Donors must be healthy and aged between 16 and 75 years. The blood service provider has stated that it urgently needs group O and B donors as its stock is running low.
“We are experiencing low donations and presently South Africa has 2.7 days’ stock,” said Thandi Mosupye, SANBS senior marketing manager, appealing to all due for a donation to do so at the entity’s branches countrywide.
“Expressing our heritage goes beyond taking pride in cultural roots. It is also about embracing the complex and multifaceted community that is South Africa.
“So, while you consider your unique celebration this upcoming Heritage Day weekend, please spare some time to lend a hand in improving one of our country’s most treasured resources X our nation’s blood supply.”
The blood service provider has various blood campaigns planned around the country and additional weekend blood drives to ensure a stable blood supply during this trying period.
“Blood donation is a great way of knowing you may be able to give someone else more time to observe more celebratory moments with their friends and families. We urge you to spare 30 minutes to make a life-saving difference this Heritage Month. It is only possible to meet the demand with the help of regular and committed donors. Blood donations go beyond just the person who receives blood. It is not just blood; it is saving a nation,” said Mosupye.
According to the blood service provider, it needs to collect 3 500 units of blood a day to ensure a safe and sufficient supply in the health care system. Interested individuals can visit sanbs.org.za or contact 0800-11-9031 to find out where they can donate blood.
