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The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) currently has 3.5 days of bloodstock available in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, with the ideal supply being for seven days. This is according to local SANBS spokesperson, Shavani Sewpaul.
Looking at this urgent situation, Sewpaul explains, “Depending on usage, depletion of blood supply is a regular occurrence.” Highlighting the blood bank’s most significant source of blood usually stems from school learners. However, “Sadly, the pandemic has limited our ability to visit schools. Our entrance into business clinics has also been affected.”
While many might not see blood donations as a pressing issue, Sewpaul explains that one in seven people admitted to hospital will require blood. “Every seven seconds, somebody needs blood and over 20 000 litres of donated blood are used each day.”
Relying on the community for support in donating blood, the Newcastle Lions Club came together to help the SANBS on Thursday, 25 March 2021, by donating blood.
Lions President Nicolette Baney explains that blood donations and drives form an indispensable part of the organisation’s worldwide campaign and mission to help others. “Donating blood saves lives, with just one pint of blood being able to assist three people.”
Rubeena Jadwat & Nicolette Baney 
Nicolette Baney 
Magdèl Pretorius 
Lize Smith 
Rubeena Jadwat 
Zarina Luck
With the organisation showing their support, Sewpaul enthuses, “Community assistance is the backbone of the success in NKZN. Our community has flocked to our clinics. As such, we have maintained above 100% collections in March. The initiative undertaken by the fabulous ladies of the Lions – is exactly what we need. Thank you. I hope it’s an example that others aspire to, saving three lives in 30 minutes. To our committed donors, you are our heroes.”
Be sure to follow the lead of the Lions Club and donate blood. Every pint counts, and you can save a life in one easy step.
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