Blood stocks in the Western Cape remain at a critical point as the Western Province Blood Transfusion Service (WPBTS) celebrates 80 years of service. WPBTS would therefore like to appeal to new and regular blood donors who meet the basic criteria to come and donate blood.
“Currently the blood stock ranges between 1 and 2 days. Ideally we would like to see a blood stock level of 5 days.” says Michelle Vermeulen, Corporate Public Relations Officer for the WPBTS. “We are thankful to our regular donors who have helped us reach a remarkable milestone of 80 years, however, we are still appealing to donors who have not made a donation recently or new donors who meet the basic criteria to please come and donate blood.”
Blood donation takes 20 to 30 minutes of your time every 56 days. It requires you to be between the age of 16 and 65, weigh over 50kg, be in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle. It does not cause you any bodily harm, since only 475ml of blood is taken, which is replaced within 24 hours.
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.