Traditionally December is a difficult time for the South African National Blood Service (SANBS), as we are unable to collect the 3000 units of blood a day that is needed to treat patients, like those who are terminally ill, let alone any trauma incidents.
- We are an organisation that saves and promotes life
- We value life
- We value our blood donors
In a fast paced society where instant response and gratification is the order of the day, it becomes highly frustrating and difficult for us to accept when this is not so. This frustration can easily be experienced by patients and their families, especially when there is a major crisis with the availability of blood for transfusions to these patients.
The greatest needs for blood are for patients who are terminally ill and rely on daily, if not weekly transfusions for their survival as well as women who had complications at childbirth. Accidents, scheduled operations and paediatric cases are the other cases where blood is needed desperately too.
We want to encourage the public to find 30 minutes this holiday period to donate blood, because whilst you are relaxing and enjoying the break your blood will be out there saving up to three lives.
The KZN region has planned various special blood drive promotions over the festive season and into January 2016 with extended hours and additional weekend blood drives. The idea is to remain on people’s minds and to be accessible, convenient and visible.
It is only possible to meet the demand with the help of regular and committed blood donors.
Blood donors are extraordinary South Africans. They are the reason that healthcare workers in hospitals across the country can do their challenging jobs with more ease. We absolutely can’t do without this special type of volunteer.
In order to become a blood donor you must:
- Weigh at least 50kg
- Be between the ages of 16-65
- Lead a safe sexual lifestyle
- Be in general good health; and
- Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient.
THE BLOOD STOCK AS AT 09H00 ON MONDAY 21ST DECEMBER 2015
KZN is on 2.6 day’s cover and nationally we are on 4.1 day’s cover.
How to find the nearest donor centre
Phone 0800 11 9031 | www.sanbs.org.za | Facebook.com/SANBS | Twitter @theSANBS | Send your postal code to 31454.
About the SANBS
SANBS is a non-profit organisation which provides an essential service within South Africa. It is rated amongst the best in the world in the provision of blood and blood products, as well as in relation to the research and training provided. SANBS operates across all of South Africa, with the exclusion of the Western Cape.