Botha-Bothe, June 15 — As the world commemorated World Blood Donor Day on June 14, Botha-Bothe Red Cross Society, in collaboration with Dr. Strong Thabo Makenete Hospital’s Blood Bank, today encouraged patients and healthcare workers to donate blood.
Speaking during the event, Blood Bank Officer Ms. Mabafokeng Makhetha highlighted the importance of blood donation, saying it not only saves lives but also benefits donors.
“Many people believe that blood donation only helps save the lives of others, which is true and important. However, they do not realise that donating blood can also benefit them because every donated unit of blood is thoroughly tested for various diseases. When such conditions are detected early, treatment can begin promptly, improving a person’s health outcomes,” she said.
Ms. Makhetha explained that donated blood undergoes several tests, which would otherwise require individuals to pay for.
“Through blood donation, people can learn their HIV status, whether they have syphilis, and whether they have diseases that may affect the liver. Most importantly, donors also get to know their blood group,” she added.
She encouraged community members to become regular blood donors, noting that many people living with hypertension frequently donate blood and report positive experiences.
“I urge people to come and donate blood. I have noticed that many people with hypertension become regular donors because they believe it helps them manage their blood pressure,” she said.
Ms. Makhetha further noted that since the establishment of the blood bank in the district, the response from the community has been encouraging. While some people initially donate blood during emergencies involving family members or friends, many later become regular donors after understanding the importance of the practice.
Botha-Bothe Red Cross Society representative, Ms. Tlaleng Maimane said blood donation forms part of the organisation’s humanitarian activities, aimed at promoting volunteerism and saving lives.
She said commemorating World Blood Donor Day serves as an important reminder of the role individuals can play in ensuring a sufficient blood supply for patients in need.
One of the volunteers who donated blood, Ms. Nthabiseng Makabane (25), said she was motivated by a previous experience involving a relative who required a blood transfusion.
“It is my first time donating blood, but it will not be my last. I am doing this because I want to help save lives and ensure that no one loses their life due to a shortage of blood,” she said.
World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on June 14 to raise awareness about the need for safe blood and to thank voluntary blood donors for their life-saving contributions.
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