We’re one week away from Heritage Day. In between stocking up on braaivleis and charcoal, you can help the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) stock up on its blood reserves.
As part of their latest campaign, “Giving is in my blood: Make blood donation part of your heritage,” the WCBS is encouraging South Africans from all walks of life to donate blood this September and October, and prevent potential stock shortages.
“As we celebrate our diverse heritage, we encourage everyone to make giving part of their identity,” says Marike Carli, the public relations manager at WCBS. “There is no substitute for blood – it’s a selfless act that saves lives and supports families.”
DONATE BLOOD TO SAVE SAFFAS’ LIVES
One unit of blood (475 millilitres) is enough to save up to three lives. All donations will go towards replenishing the WCBS’ blood stocks, benefitting countless patients across the Western Cape.
To become a donor, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- You must be between the ages of 16 and 75.
- You weigh 50 kilograms or more.
- You are medically healthy.
- You lead a safe lifestyle.
Remember to eat a hearty meal approximately three or four hours before making your donation. This helps increase your fluid intake before and after the donation is completed.
You will also receive a free, special water bottle as thanks for supporting the campaign.
MAKE AN EXTRA DIFFERENCE THIS HERITAGE MONTH
If you’re unable to contribute to the “Giving is in my blood” campaign, don’t worry. You can ask the WCBS to pay R15 on your behalf to a selected beneficiary as part of their “Through our Extra Drop” initiative.
For September and October, that beneficiary is the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR), which specialises in providing bone marrow transplants. These funds will go towards finding new donors, expanding SABMR’s registry and securing life-saving transplants.
Want to know how else you can help? Visit wcbs.org.za or send a WhatsApp message to 060 549 7244 for more information or to locate your nearest blood donation clinic.
Make a difference this Heritage Month by donating blood today. Then, you can treat yourself to some iron-rich steak or biltong afterwards!
