The Kroonstad Donor Centre has seen a decrease in blood donations over the past few months and needs your help to save lives.
Spaski Geldenhuis, a universal blood donor from Kroonstad, has donated 117 units to date. In this way he has made a difference in the lives of more than 300 patients in South Africa, and he encourages people to do the same.
“I started donating blood at the age of 16. At first, it was about the delicious cookies, but today I understand the huge impact my 20 minutes have on others.
“It takes just 20 minutes, four times a year to make a huge difference in someone else’s life.”
The number of regular blood donors has drastically declined and the SANBS appeals to all regular donors to donate again.
The SANBS would like to urge the youth to do their part as well, as new donors.
The A and AB blood types are in high demand.
Source plasma donations are also needed.
“Plasma is universal and can be used for any blood group. It contains antibodies, clotting factors and proteins – but the magical part is that it can be used to save the lives of people with rare chronic diseases and disorders,” says Bronwyn Petersen of the SANBS Kroonstad branch.
“To donate source plasma or find out more, please contact the Kroonstad donor centre.”
Visit the SANBS at the Checkers Centre in North Road, Kroonstad, on weekdays from 09:00 to 18:00 and Saturdays from 09:00 to 14:00.
Bring your friends and family and commit to saving lives.
To become a blood donor, you must:
- ?be between the ages of 16 and 75;
- ?weigh 50 kg or more;
- ?be in good health;
- ?lead a safe lifestyle;
- ?consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient; and
- ?commit to donating blood regularly.
For more information about becoming a blood donor contact Petersen on 051-400-6890 or Bronwyn.Petersen@sanbs.org.za.
