As the Western Province Blood Transfusion Service (WPBTS) celebrated 80 years of service in October, the organisation is calling on new and regular blood donors who meet the basic criteria to donate blood.
“Currently the blood stock ranges between one and two days. Ideally we would like to see a blood stock level of five days,” said Michelle Vermeulen, Corporate Public Relations Officer for the WPBTS.
WPBTS calls on public for blood donations. VIDEO: Kelly-Jane Turner
The months of October and November are usually the best months for donations in the Western Cape, however that is not the case this year as there has been a shortage according to Jill Nicholas, Promotional Officer for the WPBTS in the Paarl region.
“We have been trying to figure out why people have not been donating as much, as spring and summer are usually the season we receive the most donations. We’ve found that many students have been preparing for exams, which could be the reason why we have had a loss of blood stocks.”
Vermeulen said there are various factors which may have contributed to the blood shortage. “We had a long winter with donors (potential and existing) suffering from colds and flu. When it’s raining and cold, people tend to stay indoors, especially at our residential clinic.”
WATCH: An immersive 360 video of what to expect while donating blood! VIDEO & DONATION: Kelly-Jane Turner
The Maties Big Bleed took place from the 8th-11th of October during which time the WPBTS team were set up in the Neelsie everyday from 10am-3pm.
Monique de Villiers (23), an MFM 92.6 Drive presenter and a first-time blood donor said “As a first time donor, I found the process was quick and unexpectedly pain free. I can’t believe it took me so long to donate but I’m glad I’ve done it now. I feel good knowing that I can play a part in saving someone’s life”.
“I would suggest to anyone who hasn’t donated blood yet to start. If you meet the basic criteria to donate, then I encourage you to do it whenever there is a clinic near you.”
“Nicholas said, “we are grateful for the Maties students who donated. They have given us more than what we expected”.
One of these 475ml units of blood can save up to three lives. The blood one donates is replaced within 24 hours. PHOTO: Kelly-Jane Turner
Being the only Blood Service in the Western Cape, Vermeulen said “turning 80 is remarkable for us”. The WPBTS was established on the 24th of October 1938 at the Groote Schuur Hospital.
For more information, visit the WPBTS website.
Or SMS “Blood” to 33507 and WPBTS will call you back.
Donors can also call (021) 507 6300 or e-mail info@wpbts.org.za.
What you need to know about blood donation and why you should consider it. INFOGRAPHIC: Kelly-Jane Turner