The Western Province Blood Transfusion Service (WPBTS) needs to collect 700 units of blood daily to meet the needs of patients in the Western Cape and with less than 1.5% of the provincial population donating, it remains a constant challenge. Even in this technologically advanced era, there is still no artificial replacement for blood.
In recognising that the youth of our country holds the future of a safe and sustainable blood supply in their hands, WPBTS will be hosting its annual #Youthtube competition, aimed at 15 to 25 year olds. It is the second year this competition is presented and WPBTS is proud of the success it reached during 2016.
“The goal of the campaign is to create brand awareness around blood donation, increase blood collections and to provide a platform for young and aspiring filmmakers to showcase their talent. Ultimately, we want to save lives and inspire our youth to join in,” says Irene van Schalkwyk, Promotions Manager at WPBTS. “Interested parties can visit the WPBTS website www.wpblood.org.za (YouthTube tab) to download the competition brief.”
Competition entries will be open from 28 June to 18 September 2017. During October the public will be encouraged to vote to determine the winners who will be announced in November.
There are two entry categories: Category 1 is open to all youth aged 15 – 19 and Category 2 for all youth aged 20 – 25. There are amazing prizes up for grabs, which include camera gear for the category winners, a Canon Camera for the educational institution with the most entries and spot prizes for voters sponsored by Galileo and Tracker.
Persons older than 16, weighing more than 50 kg’s, who is in general good health and leads a safe lifestyle, is eligible to donate blood. Donors must remember to eat a substantial meal within three to four hours before donating.
While donors from all blood groups and communities are important, there is a particular need for donors with blood types O and B to donate as stocks of these are more vulnerable to shortfalls. There is also a need for more black African people to become blood donors to reflect the ethnic diversity of patients.
For more information, SMS “Blood” to 33507 and WPBTS will call you back with information on where to donate. Donors can also call (021) 507 6300, e-mail info@wpbts.org.za or visit www.wpblood.org.za. Like us on Facebook (WP Blood), follow us on Twitter (@WPBlood) and/ or Instagram (WP_Blood) or download the WP Blood App (free download on iOS and Android app stores) for blood stock updates.