The SANBS’s documentary Why Blood Matters explores the stories of donors and recipients and the processes involved in making safe blood available. The documentary premiered in Johannesburg on Thursday (8/10) and is scheduled for a repeat broadcast on SABC 2 on Friday (16/10) at 13:30.

To meet the country’s ongoing healthcare needs, the blood service aims to collect at least 3,500 units of blood every day. Eligible donors are people between the ages of 16 and 75 who weigh at least 50kg, are in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle.

Because each donation is separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets, a single unit can save as many as three lives, meaning the daily target has the potential to benefit around 9,000 patients.

SANBS Free State and Northern Cape head of donor relations Jana Wallace encouraged South Africans to make blood donation part of their routine, emphasising that every unit can make a life-saving difference.

“Patients require blood transfusions following accidents, during surgery, as part of cancer treatment, and for various other medical conditions.

“Having a reliable blood supply allows hospitals to provide this important care when it is needed. Because blood has a limited shelf life, regular donations are essential to maintain a consistent and sustainable supply.

“Every donated unit of blood undergoes careful testing, processing and storage before it is made available to hospitals. Behind every blood donation is a person who has chosen to make a difference, and behind every transfusion is a patient who benefits from that generosity.”

The documentary takes viewers behind the scenes of South Africa’s blood supply system, bringing together the voices of donors, recipients, healthcare professionals and SANBS experts to tell the story of what happens between the moment blood is donated and the moment it becomes a lifeline for someone in need. At the heart of the documentary are the people whose lives have been touched by blood donation.

For some recipients, blood is needed because of an accident or medical emergency. For others, it forms part of a long and complex treatment journey.

An infographic on what happens to your blood donation. Photo: sanbs.org.za

One of the stories featured is that of Marie Bontjes, who was diagnosed with anaemia at just one year old. Her story highlights how blood transfusion can become part of a person’s life from childhood.

Another recipient, Meena Singh, experienced liver failure and required a liver transplant. Her journey involved receiving multiple units of blood an intervention she describes as giving her an opportunity at life.

The documentary also follows Gregory Naidoo, whose experience illustrates the unpredictability of medical emergencies and the vital role blood can play when a person’s body is under immense strain.

“We often talk about blood in terms of units, blood groups, stock levels, and statistics, but behind every unit is a human story,” said SANBS marketing and branding manager Simphiwe Cele.

“A donor chose to give; people work tirelessly to ensure the blood is safe, and a patient’s life may depend on receiving it. Why Blood Matters brings those stories together and reminds us why this work matters so deeply.”

OFM News/Zenande Mpame   cvdw

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