Meet Zanele, a vibrant young woman who had just started her journey as a nurse. One day, while driving home after a long shift, she was involved in a severe car accident. Zanele was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, requiring immediate surgery and a significant blood transfusion. Her chances of survival were slim, but thanks to the availability of donated blood, her life was saved.

The life-giving blood that flowed through Zanele’s veins came from someone she had never met—a person who, in that moment, became her hero. That anonymous blood donor made a profound impact on her life, allowing her to heal and continue pursuing her dreams. Inspired by this experience, Zanele became an avid advocate for blood donation, recognising its life-saving potential.

Across the world, blood service organisations aim to collect thousands of units of blood per day.

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) aims to collect 3000 units of blood per day to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply into the healthcare system. Here’s how you can donate blood:

  1.  Eligibility Criteria: Donors must be between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh at least 50 kilograms, and be in good health. Some health conditions, recent tattoos or travel, and certain medications may temporarily defer individuals from donating.
  2. Find a Donation Site: SANBS operates various donation centres and mobile units across South Africa. You can visit https://sanbs.org.za/
  3. The Donation Process: The blood donation process is straightforward and generally takes about 30 minutes. It involves a simple health screening to determine eligibility, followed by the actual donation, which typically lasts between 5 to 10 minutes. A small amount of blood (about 480 millilitres) is collected, after which you’ll be given refreshments to replenish your body.

Less than 1% of South Africans are active blood donors. A unit of blood only lasts 42 days after donation, and for this reason, blood donors need to donate regularly. Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.

Every unit of blood can save at least three lives as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets.

If you want to understand more about blood donation or are concerned for any reason, please call LifeAssist, and a health counsellor can discuss this with you. Together, let’s continue to promote awareness about blood donation and create a world where every life has a chance to thrive.