WCBS Blood Drive

On Tuesday 30th January, we had the Western Cape Blood Service, or WCBS, come to ISCT in order to take blood donations from the teachers, students and parents who were willing and able to give. There was a great turnout this year with over 20 people coming to give their blood. Thank you to all who were able to donate, you have made a huge difference in someones life!

The WCBS is a non-profit, independent organisation who operate throughout the Western Cape. They work to supply safe blood to all communities which helps save countless lives every year. “It’s our goal to deliver a world-class blood service in the Western Cape.” 

-By Ella

Here are some questions answered by Nadia Turner, marketing practitioner at WCBS:

What is the process after you’ve donated blood? How are the donations distributed and used?

“After you donate blood, drink lots of fluids, especially water. Don’t do any strenuous exercise or heavy lifting after donation and reduce regular exercise for about 24 hours. The donated blood is tested and processed at our head office in Ndabeni. We separate the blood into different components and the blood and blood products are sent to hospitals around the Western Cape where doctors order blood or the blood products from the blood banks, that their patients require.”

What are some safety tips that you have for the people donating blood?

“Eat well and drink lots of fluids within 3 to 4 hours before donating and continue to drink fluids in the 4 hours after donating. Avoid heavy lifting after donation with the arm used for donating and don’t sit in the hot sun after donating. Just take it easy, knowing you have saved 3 lives :)”

What would you say to people who are afraid to give blood?

“Many people are afraid of needles but donating blood is not painful. You will just feel a small pinch when the needle is inserted.  This little bit of discomfort for a short period of time will allow you to save 3 people’s lives in less than half an hour. You should feel absolutely fine afterwards provided you follow the advice of the sister and clinic staff at the clinic. Our team of experts are there to ensure that the donation process is as easy and comfortable as possible. Afterwards you will be rewarded with delicious biscuits and juice, as well as the satisfaction of knowing you have done something so selfless and remarkable.”Many people are afraid of needles but donating blood is not painful. You will just feel a small pinch when the needle is inserted.  This little bit of discomfort for a short period of time will allow you to save 3 people’s lives in less than half an hour. You should feel absolutely fine afterwards provided you follow the advice of the sister and clinic staff at the clinic. Our team of experts are there to ensure that the donation process is as easy and comfortable as possible. Afterwards you will be rewarded with delicious biscuits and juice, as well as the satisfaction of knowing you have done something so selfless and remarkable.”

Photos by Amina, Ivanilda, Ruby