The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to all eligible and potential donors to give the biggest gift this festive season by donating blood.
The service must maintain a five-day blood-stock level to supply the province with sufficient blood. Blood-stock levels tend to decline for various reasons during the Festive Season.
Blood is transfused in hospitals to patients in need every day. It is not only used for trauma and road accidents, but also for scheduled operations, during childbirth and for patients suffering from various illnesses such as cancer and blood diseases.
“This Festive Season our theme is You’ve got so much to give. Blood donation only takes 30 minutes of your time, and you can save up to three lives with one donation,” implored WCBS public relations manager Marike Gevers.
Regarding the theme, the service will give people who successfully donate a unit of blood a small token of its appreciation this Festive Season. From Friday 16 December donors will receive a WCBS-branded sunscreen while stocks last.
If you are between ages 16 and 75, weigh 50 kg or more, are in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate. To find your closest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za, download the WCBS app or send a WhatsApp message to 060 549 7244.
