ring Ring! South Africa's blood supply is demanding and this is a call that cannot be ignored. no spam. No robocalls. Just a real chance to save a life.
After the festive season, there has been a decline in blood collection across the country, while the need for blood remains constant and critical.
In response, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has launched a national blood donation campaign, Answer the Call, urging South Africans to roll up their sleeves and help rebuild the country's blood reserves.
Every day life across South Africa depends on the availability of blood. From accident victims and cancer patients to mothers facing delivery complications, a steady blood supply is essential.
The Answer the Call campaign, officially launched on February 11, comes at a time when national blood stock levels have fallen below optimal levels and the focus is on strengthening reserves ahead of the Easter holiday period, so that when the call comes, hospitals can save lives every day.
Answering the Call is more than a mission – it's a moment we all recognize. That moment when the phone rings and you stop and think whether to answer or not.
This time, it's worth taking. Because that call could help save a loved one, friend, or someone else's family member.
Blood donation is not a thing to be postponed. A small act, done regularly, keeps the health care system functioning when it matters most.
“While many South Africans were travelling, relaxing, and enjoying the holiday season over the festive season, it took no time to respond to an emergency. Road accidents, medical procedures and life-saving treatments all depend on a steady blood supply,” said Monique Schreiner, Senior Manager of Donor Relations.
“Answering the call is about reminding South Africans that now is the time to move forward, especially as we approach another high-demand time like Easter.”
Who can answer the call?
SANBS encourages all eligible South Africans to donate blood. To qualify, donors must:
• Be 16 years of age or older (if under 18, with parental consent)
• Weight is 50 kg or more
• Have good general health
• Adopt a low-risk lifestyle
The donation process takes about 30 minutes, and one donation can save up to three lives – helping accident victims, cancer patients, surgical patients and mothers facing delivery complications.
What does it mean to answer a call
Answering a call is simple:
• Donate blood at your nearest SANBS Donor Center or Blood Drive
• Encourage friends, family and colleagues to donate, including first-time donors
• Donate regularly to help rebuild and maintain reliable blood buffers
“Answering the call today helps ensure patients will continue to get the blood they need tomorrow,” Schreiner said.
“By donating today, South Africans can help support a stable blood supply over the Easter period and beyond.
“When SANBS calls, it's never about us. It's about the life waiting on the other end of the line.”
SANBS thanks all the donors, partners and communities who continue to answer the call and give the gift of life.
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