The Western Cape Blood Service set the goal to collect 1000 units of blood over the weekend, thanks to regular donors and 196 new donors, they collected 1011!
Cape Town, South Africa (01 November 2022) – The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) held the first of its festive drives to collect much-needed blood for the upcoming “silly season”. As blood demand goes up during the festive season, the organisation aims to be prepared to avoid any shortages.
The team set the goal to collect 1000 units of blood in one day, from ten locations. Calling it the big bleed, the team felt hopeful – and rightly so! The team went beyond the goal and managed to get many first-time donors too!
“The aim of this big bleed is to collect 1000 units of blood and welcome at least 100 new blood donors to start their remarkable life-saving journey.”
WCBS has struggled to maintain the required 5-day blood stock levels over the past month. Currently, there is a critical shortage in numerous blood groups. They only have a 2-day supply left for O blood groups and a 3-day supply for A+ and B+ blood groups. Stock levels in the Western Cape tend to decline during the festive season. One reason could be that regular donors go on holiday and perhaps do not attend their blood donation clinic.
Speaking to Marike from the WCBS, she was able to confirm that they collected 1011 units of blood and registered 196 new donors. While this festive drive is over, there will be more to come. But between now and then, you can still head to your nearest donation centre to give blood.
If you are between the ages of 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate. For more details or to find an alternative blood donation clinic, please download the WCBS app, send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244, phone us toll-free at 0800 O BLOOD (6 25663) or visit www.wcbs.org.za
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