SANBS encourages people to donate
Bonolo Mashilo's life was spared by SANBS as she was suffering from anaemia and needed blood to survive.
THE South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has yet again played a massive role in donating blood.
Bonolo Mashilo’s life was spared by SANBS as she was suffering from anaemia and needed blood to survive. There are thousands of individuals who are living in life-threatening conditions.
Mashilo said it really is an awesome thing to do for people to donate blood.
“Thanks to everyone who made it a point that I get the blood I needed. Blood donations go way beyond just the person who receives the blood. It’s not just blood, it’s keeping families together,” she said.
SANBS encourages citizens to donate blood in order to save lives. World Blood Donor Day, which takes place on June 14, highlights the need to maintain a stable supply of healthy, safe blood and blood products, while encouraging people to become regular donors. It’s also an opportunity to thank the volunteers whose donations of blood save and enhance the lives of people like Bonolo.
SANBS chief marketing officer Silungile Mlambo said life is a precious thing and a gift.
“We know that South Africans have huge hearts and we call on them to fully embrace the spirit of this year’s World Blood Donor Day theme, Safe Blood for All.
“Out of South Africa’s population of 56 million people, only about one per cent donate blood regularly. This blood is used by every person living in this country who needs a transfusion during an operation or for emergencies during childbirth,” Mlambo says.
SANBS applauds its regular donors, who ensure the target of 3 500 units per day is maintained.
This is where your blood goes
There is a common misconception that most of the blood donated in South Africa goes to accident victims. This is not the case.
Here is a rough breakdown from the SANBS of where the blood it collects is used:
• 28 percent is used to treat cancer and aplastic anaemia.
• 27 percent is used during childbirth.
• 21 percent is used for scheduled surgery.
• 10 percent is used for paediatric care.
• 6 per cent goes to laboratories.
• 6 percent is used for orthopaedic care.
• 4 percent is used for accident or trauma victims.
Visit www.sanbs.org.za or call 0800 11 9031 to find out where you can donate blood on World Blood Donor Day. Join the SANBS on Twitter (@theSANBS), Facebook (@SANBS) and Instagram (@thesanbs).
