The 14th of June is World Blood Donor Day, established to honour the men and women who regularly donate to help keep the supply up.
South Africa (13 June 2024) – As the world celebrates World Blood Donor Day (WBDD) on the 14 June 2024, the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) proudly joins the global community in honouring voluntary blood donors throughout the month.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has themed this year’s WBDD as “Celebrating 20 years of giving: thank you blood donors,” a testament to the commitment and generosity of donors who give selflessly. During this month, WCBS endeavours to raise awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and to highlight the local superheroes who save lives through the act of blood donation.
As we know, winter presents unique challenges to the blood supply, with cold weather and seasonal illnesses affecting donor turnout. However, WCBS donors consistently rise to the occasion, embodying the true essence of heroes.
This June, under the theme “Be a Local Hero, Let’s Celebrate National Blood Donor Month!” the WCBS invites individuals to embrace their inner hero and save lives. As a token of appreciation, every donation during June will receive a unique pair of hero-inspired socks, symbolising the warmth and comfort donors provide to patients in need.
Why Donate Blood?
- Be a Lifesaver: Your blood donation is vital for surgeries, accident victims, cancer patients, and others in need.
- Quick and Easy: Donation takes only 30 minutes and can be done every 56 days.
- Safe and Healthy: Donating blood is a safe process and your body quickly replenishes the donated blood volume.
Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager for WCBS, says, “As winter tightens its grip, maintaining our 5-day blood supply becomes challenging. Colds, flu, and the colder weather can impact donor turnout. We urge our community of blood donors to unleash the heroes within them as one donation can save up to three lives.”
If you’re between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, in good general health, and lead a safe lifestyle, you can donate blood. We encourage all donors who haven’t donated recently to find their nearest donation clinic and continue their life-saving journey.
“Let’s not only celebrate World Blood Donor Day on the 14th, let’s celebrate our donors this June, as part of National Blood Donor Month. Thank you to each and every blood donor who selflessly gives to save others. We salute you, our local heroes,” Carli added.
For more information or to find your closest blood donation clinic, visit: www.wcbs.org.za or download the WCBS App, or send a WhatsApp message to 060 549 7244.
Be a Local Hero, Let’s Celebrate National Blood Donor Month!
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