By: Veantha Naidoo

The South African National Blood Service held a blood drive at the DUT (Durban University of Technology) City Campus on Friday, due to a decrease in blood stocks.

The blood service, declared a state of emergency, on the last week of August, when their blood stocks reached an all- time low resulting in patients who needed blood transfusions to be put on a
waiting list.

Desiree Xaba, who works at the blood bank said, “Blood donations are important, it saves lives and enables individuals to learn more about the blood group that they belong to.

When individuals donate blood they also get their blood pressure and iron levels tested, which helps them to find out if they need certain vitamins or minerals.”

Many students however were turned away as a result of poor iron levels and were advised to consume iron-rich foods and invest in an iron supplement.

“The aim of the blood drive was to raise awareness on the importance of donating blood.

Many people are initially afraid of donating and do not realize that just by donating once you can save up to three lives,” said nurse Bongani Manhique.

Manhique added, “I would advise everyone who meets the requirements to donate blood, because blood banks in South Africa are always facing shortages.”

Lindiwe Gumede, a student stated, “The reason why I decided to donate blood is because I believe that I can make a difference and help save lives.

I encourage other people to donate blood because it is the greatest gift that you can give to others.”

In order to donate blood an individual needs to meet following requirements.

The donor needs to be older than 16 and younger than 65. The individual needs to weigh over 50 kg and overall be in

good health. Blood donors should also lead a sexually safe lifestyle.