Western Cape – 1 October 2026: This October the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) encourages the public to stay healthy and strong and use that strength to give someone else the gift of life. Our bodies are capable of extraordinary things, and saving lives is one of them,
“Your strength can save a life”, says Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager for WCBS. “Donating blood is one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference. Strength isn’t only about physical ability, it’s about courage, compassion and choosing to show up for someone you’ve never met. Every donation gives a patient another chance at life.”
Apart from Whole blood donation, WCBS also offers plasma donation. Plasma donation is an excellent alternative to whole blood donation, particularly for donors who have recently travelled to a malaria area or whose haemoglobin level is just slightly below the threshold for whole blood donation. From 5 to 9 October, WCBS will mark Plasma Awareness Week, shining a spotlight on the vital role plasma plays in patient care and treatment. Plasma can be donated at our blood donation centres located at N1 City Shopping Centre, Blue Route Mall, Cape Gate Mall, 9 Long Street and Kenilworth Centre. Should anyone be interested in plasma donation they are encouraged to contact the WCBS.
Every day 700 units of blood are needed to meet the needs of patients across the Western Cape. Whether you are donating for the first time or a regular donor, every donation makes a difference. If you are between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50 kg or more, are in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate. Donors are also advised to increase their fluid intake before and after donation. A blood donation takes only 30 minutes, and one donation can help save up to three lives.
For more information or to find your closest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za, or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244. Scan the QR code below for any enquiries about blood donation. Be sure to follow our WhatsApp Channel, by scanning the QR code below.
Distributed by the Western Cape Blood Service
Public Relations Manager – Marike Carli
0718563625 | marike@wcbs.org.za
About the Western Cape Blood Service:
The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is a non-profit regional health organisation, dedicated to collecting blood from voluntary blood donors, and providing the safest blood products and efficient service to the community, while operating at the highest professional and ethical standards and remaining a viable organisation. WCBS works without prejudice to supply safe blood and blood products to all communities in the region, from Cape Town all the way up to George. It’s our goal to deliver a world-class blood service in the Western Cape.
