Just 10 minutes of your time could save three lives

GEORGE NEWS - A coffee break lasts longer than the actual blood donation, yet those few minutes could mean the difference between life and death for up to three people.

The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is encouraging George residents to make time for a life-saving act of kindness when it hosts a blood donation clinic at the George Municipality Banquet Hall in York Street on Thursday 16 July, from 10:00 to 15:00.

Under the theme 'Be Bold – Donate Blood', the WCBS reminds the public that every unit of donated blood can be separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets, helping as many as three patients.

Blood is needed daily for accident victims, people undergoing surgery, mothers experiencing childbirth complications and patients receiving treatment for illnesses such as cancer.

Both regular and first-time donors are invited to take part.

To donate, you must:

Be between 16 and 75 years old.
Weigh at least 50kg.
Be in good general health.
Lead a sexually safe lifestyle.

The blood drive is supported by the Garden Route District Municipality and George Municipality.

The entire donation process takes about 30 minutes, with the blood draw itself lasting only around 10 minutes. Healthy donors can give blood every 56 days.

Residents who cannot attend this clinic are encouraged to become regular donors by visiting a permanent WCBS donor centre or attending future mobile blood drives.