It only takes 30 minutes to potentially save three lives. This Valentine’s Day, spread the love by learning more about blood donation and signing up to become a donor, because you are someone’s type! Here’s what you need to know:
Western Cape, South Africa (14 February 2025) — In celebration of the day and month of love, the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is encouraging the public to spread the love by donating blood, because you are someone’s type!
Blood donation is one of the most impactful ways to help others, with each donation holding the power to potentially save up to three lives. This is because blood is separated into three components—red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. Each of these can then be used to treat different patients with varied medical needs.
The Need in the Western Cape
Currently, less than 1% of the Western Cape’s population are active blood donors. Because of this, WCBS’s ongoing goal is to increase the number of new blood donors who wish to make a difference, ensuring that they can consistently maintain a 5-day blood stock supply.
Blood is vital for life-saving treatment across hospitals daily, supporting patients in need due to car accidents, traumas, childbirth, cancer treatment, and other serious medical conditions.
“It only takes 30 minutes to potentially save three lives, and we encourage donors to share their heart this month by donating blood,” says Michelle Vermeulen, Head of Marketing and Public Relations at the Western Cape Blood Service. “We also want to express our heartfelt thanks to every donor who has helped us continue this life-saving work.”
And, as a token of appreciation, each donor will receive a fortune cookie this month. In the spirit of love and giving, the fortune cookie serves as a reminder that small acts of kindness, like donating blood, can lead to something truly remarkable.
Am I Eligible to Donate Blood?
If you’re aged between 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you may be eligible to donate blood. Share your heart this month and donate blood.
For more information or to find your closest blood donation clinic, please visit www.wcbs.org.za, download the WCBS app, or send a WhatsApp message to 060 549 7244.
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