Your blood can save lives

Each time you donate blood, you make a difference in somebody’s life. The South African National Blood Services has a branch in the Mokopane Mall that services the entire Mogalakwena area.
“Our regular donors do well,” says clinic supervisor Moira Nesmith, “but we encourage all donors to please donate at least four times a year.”
While actually donating only takes about 30 minutes, it is encouraging to know that one unit of blood can save up to three lives – especially at a time of the year when road accidents increase due to the increased traffic volumes during the holiday season.
What blood group is needed the most? Group O Rh negative blood can be transfused to anyone, so these donors are referred to as “universal donors”. Group O Rh negative patients on the other hand, can only receive group O Rh negative blood. Group O blood is the most versatile and adequate stocks of group O blood are vital. If for instance, group A blood is not in stock, group O blood will be used. However, all blood groups are required to ensure adequate stocks at all times.
Who receives blood? Transfusions are given to:
• Patients undergoing surgical operations
• Patients with cancer or leukaemia
• Children with severe anaemia
• Accident victims
• Women; to treat haemorrhage as a complication of pregnancy
Who should not give blood? People who have or may recently have contracted a sexually transmitted disease such as HIV or syphilis, which can be passed on to a patient through their blood. People whose lifestyle puts them at increased risk of contracting an infection that can be transmitted through their blood: for example, if they have had more than one sexual partner in the past six months, or if they have had sexual contact with someone whose sexual background is unknown to them.
How safe is it to donate blood? As a donor, you have to complete a Self Exclusion Questionnaire, with questions on your health and lifestyle. The questions are asked to ensure that it is safe for you to donate blood and that your blood is safe for a patient to receive. A finger prick test will also be done to check your iron levels. Your blood pressure will also be checked, to ensure you are fit to donate.
Who qualifies to become a blood donor? If you are between the ages of 16 and 65, weigh more than 50kg and lead a sexually safe lifestyle, you can come to a clinic and register as a blood donor.
Can I donate if I haven’t eaten? By not eating before donating, your chances of having a reaction after donating are greatly increased. It would, therefore be unwise to take your blood unless you’ve had something to eat (a light snack) within the preceding four hours.
The SANBS clinic in Mokopane is open Mondays from 10:00-17:00, Tuesday 09:00-17:00, Wednesdays 10:00-17h00, Thursdays 09:00-17:00 and Fridays from 09:00 to 17:00. The clinic will also be open on 16 December from 09:00-14:00.