South Africans are urged to donate blood this Easter weekend as SANBS aims to collect 6,000 units in a single day to help patients in urgent need. Picture Credit: Ggynecoloncol
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – The South African National Blood Service has made an urgent appeal to South Africans to donate blood this weekend, as the Easter holidays approach. The organisation has set an ambitious target of collecting 6,000 units of blood in a single day on Saturday, March 28.
“While many people will be travelling or spending time with loved ones over the long weekend, hospitals continue to treat trauma patients, perform surgeries, and support individuals undergoing cancer treatment and managing chronic illnesses, all of which rely on a steady blood supply. Behind every blood donation is a real life waiting to be saved,” SANBS said.
Blood stocks are often under pressure during public holidays, yet patients across the country remain in need. For Lezhanne Hartwell, the generosity of blood donors was the lifeline that saved her 18-month-old daughter.
Her baby girl, diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma in October 2020, required a transfusion shortly after her diagnosis. “I would like to thank all blood donors because of your generosity; you have contributed to saving our little girl’s life,” Hartwell said. The 200ml transfusion at Wits University Donald Gordon Medical Centre profoundly shaped Hartwell’s perspective. Despite a fear of needles, she has since committed to donating blood regularly, recognising its critical impact for families facing medical emergencies.
Every unit of blood donated has the potential to save up to three lives, underscoring the urgency of SANBS’ appeal this weekend. Both seasoned donors and first-timers are urged to give on March 28 to help maintain critical blood supplies throughout the Easter period.
Monique Schreiner Senior Manager of Donor Relations at SANBS said: “By donating blood, South Africans can give a gift that lasts far beyond the holiday, the gift of life. The donation process takes about 30 minutes, but the impact can last a lifetime. To participate, South Africans are encouraged to visit their nearest SANBS donor centre or mobile clinic on March 28. Your donation can be someone’s lifeline.”
Find your nearest donor centre, call 0800 11 90 31 or visit www.sanbs.org.za.
