WCBS celebrates World Blood Donor Day and the remarkable donors who save lives

NATIONAL NEWS - In celebration of World Blood Donor Day, the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) will host blood donation clinics at 10 shopping malls across the province on Saturday 13 June from 09:00 to 15:00.

The goal: 1 day, 1000 units of blood.

This year’s World Blood Donor Day theme, “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives”, highlights the compassion, generosity and humanity behind every blood donation. It serves as a reminder that a single donation can make a life-changing difference for patients in need of blood transfusions.

700 units of blood are needed every day to ensure that hospitals across the Western Cape have the blood products needed to treat trauma patients, mothers experiencing childbirth complications, cancer patients and many others whose lives depend on a reliable blood supply for survival.

“World Blood Donor Day is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary impact of ordinary people,” says Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager at the Western Cape Blood Service. “Every blood donor represents a drop of humanity in action. Their willingness to give 30 minutes of their time helps save lives and brings hope to patients and families across the Western Cape.”

World Blood Donor Day is officially observed on 14 June, however WCBS will celebrate the occasion on Saturday 13 June, to provide more people with the opportunity to donate blood and be part of the global celebration.

The public is encouraged to visit one of the participating malls, roll up a sleeve and help WCBS reach its goal of collecting 1000 units of blood in one day.

Blood donation takes only 30 minutes and one donation can save up to three lives.

Whether you are a regular donor or donating for the first time, your contribution could make all the difference to a patient in need. If you're between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, in good general health, and lead a safe lifestyle, you may be eligible to donate blood.