The Western Cape Blood Service is appealing for people to donate blood. File picture: Independent Newspapers photographers
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is appealing to all blood donors to continue donating blood during the festive season.
“By donating blood, you are giving the greatest gift. You save up to three lives with one donation”, says WCBS spokesperson Marike Carli.
Blood stock levels in the Western Cape tend to decline during the festive season. One
reason could be that regular blood donors go on holiday and perhaps do not attend their
blood donation clinic.
In order to supply the province with sufficient blood and blood products, WCBS needs to maintain a blood stock level of five days.
The WCBS has seen a decline in the O-negative blood group and is therefore appealing to the public to donate blood.
Blood is transfused every day in hospitals to patients in need. It is not only used for
trauma, but also scheduled operations, during childbirth and for patients suffering from a
variety of illnesses.
Blood donation only takes 30 minutes of your time and you can donate every 56 days. If you are between 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate.
For more information or to find your closest blood donation clinic, visit
www.wcbs.org.za, download the WCBS App, or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244.