The birth of Tayla Thorpe’s baby took an unexpected, life-threatening turn, but the selfless generosity of blood donors ultimately allowed her to survive a massive haemorrhage and turn a medical crisis into a beautiful testament to human kindness.
Western Cape, South Africa (10 October 2025) – Welcoming a baby into this world is often filled with nervous excitement and joy, but for Tayla Thorpe, what began as a normal delivery on 31 August unexpectedly turned into a medical emergency.
According to the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS), shortly after giving birth, Tayla experienced a massive postpartum haemorrhage and was rushed to surgery.
She went through an intensive four-hour procedure during which doctors fought to save her life. During surgery, she received 13 units of red blood cells, without which Tayla might not be here today due to excessive blood loss from the haemorrhage.
It was the selfless act of giving from people she’ll likely never know that turned a potentially devastating fate into a beautiful testimony.
Tayla, who is also a blood donor, started giving blood in high school when the WCBS hosted clinics at Westerford High. She maintained her donations even after graduating and relocating to the Eastern Cape to complete her community service year as a Paediatric Occupational Therapist. Currently, she practices as a paediatric OT in Cape Town at the Centre for Play and Learning.
Tayla’s family and friends are thankful that they could celebrate her 31st birthday with her on 23 September.
“Thank you for making a difference. Without individuals like you, my wife wouldn’t be here today,” says Richard Thorpe, Tayla’s husband.
Her twin sister Kelly, is extremely grateful to all the blood donors who saved her life.
“Because of those blood donors, I still have my best friend by my side. Please consider donating blood. You may never know whose life you save, but to their family it means everything.”
After spending three days in the ICU and an additional four days in the hospital, Tayla returned home with baby Archar, who faces medical challenges due to birth complications. Both Tayla and Richard care for him with the support and guidance of Paedspal, a paediatric palliative care team who have been incredible as they navigate this unfathomable and uncharted path.
Tayla hopes that by sharing her story, she will encourage many more people to become blood donors.
“Please donate blood to help more families like ours,” Richard further appeals.
Every unit donated is a lifeline, and it is everyday people who have the power to be that lifeline for someone else. For more information, visit the WCBS website.
Sources: Western Cape Blood Service
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