Event information
One single donation of blood can save three lives. Donating blood is one of the simplest ways to help others - whether once-off, occasionally or regularly.
Today, the Western Cape Blood Service has grown from a small community organisation into one of the most technologically advanced blood services in Africa, accepting donations from people in various regions throughout the province.
Anyone can donate, so long as they meet the following criteria:
- Are between the ages of 16 and 75 years
- Weigh at least 50kg
- Are medically healthy (have not had jaundice or hepatitis after the age of 13, cancer, heart disease, epilepsy, or a bleeding disorder)
- Are not pregnant, suffering from any infection, or recently returned from a malarial area
- Are not risky donors (i.e. indulged in drugs, had multiple sexual partners, and tattoos or piercings done in the three months prior to donating) or if they are a competitive sportsperson training for a big event, or are involved in a hazardous occupation
Honesty is vital to blood donation and is not intended to cast judgement on potential donors, but rather ensures that uncontaminated and safe blood is donated to those who need it most. Though blood can be donated in various regions in the Western Cape, there are five fixed blood donation clinics which include: N1 City Mall in Goodwood, Blue Route Mall in Tokai, Kenilworth Centre, Cape Gate, and 9 Long Street.
