Donate Blood for Mandela Day
In the Western Cape, the winter months are traditionally a difficult period for blood collection, due to the fact that many regular donors suffer from colds and flu and are consequently unable to donate. This year, the Covid-19 pandemic has added hugely to this pressure.
Apart from the general decline in overall blood stock levels, there is currently a critical shortage in O- and B+ blood groups.
The Western Cape Blood Service needs to collect 700 units of blood every day in order to supply the province with a safe and sustainable blood supply.
There are approximately 7 million people living in the Western Cape and 75% of this population will require blood or blood products in their lifetime, however, only 1% of the population will ever donate blood.
So, we need everyone who fulfils the basic donor criteria to donate blood and be the difference in someone else’s life.
If you are between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are healthy on the day of donation and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, we need you to donate blood.
It only takes 30 minutes of your time and could save three lives.
This week, you can donate blood at these Western Cape Blood Service clinics:
- N1 City Mall
- Blue Route Mall
- 9 Long Street, Cape Town
All Covid-19 safety protocols are in place for your protection.
Ewan Strydom did his bit by donating blood at the Long Street branch:
