Championing blood donation awareness

INSPIRED by the positive impact that daily blood transfusion had on her now late brother’s life and later on in her own, Romita Hanuman actively champions blood donation awareness. 

Hanuman, 37, of Phoenix, who is not only a blood donor, also holds regular blood drives. 

“I am a controller at work, which means I organise blood drives at my workplace. I also encourage colleagues to donate. I  frequently post my blood drive posters on social media to inspire others. 

“I am also a member of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS)  Donor Committee, which is a great honour as I get to contribute my ideas, discuss initiatives and implement them successfully,” she said. 

Hanuman, a communications officer, said she has been donating blood since 2017. 

“I couldn't donate before that because of my anaemia. I remember as a child, my dad used to donate blood quite often and I often accompanied, just so I could have his juice and biscuits. I didn't quite register the importance until later on.

“To date, I have donated 16 times. I try to donate at least four times a year. However, there are some instances when my anaemia springs up and my iron levels do not meet the criteria to donate,” she said. 

Hanuman added she was inspired to donate blood and hold blood drives because of her now late brother, Nivaan. 

“My late brother is my inspiration to continue to donate blood. He was in the Intensive Care Unit for quite some time and received daily blood transfusions before he passed away. I believe this gave us more time with him that we never would have had. 

“This is also why I have so much admiration for blood donors. It is a selfless act of humanity. For me, being able to donate blood is truly the best feeling ever. Knowing that my one pint of blood has the ability to save three lives, is incredibly inspiring,” she said. 

The mother of one added that she was a recipient of a blood transfusion last year. 

“I was admitted to the hospital a few days before I gave birth. Once again, my low iron levels were a concern for my doctors. They then transfused me so I can safely deliver my baby girl. I have donated since as it is even more special to me after my experience,” she said. 

Hanuman added that there was a dire need for more blood donors. 

“Blood is always needed and we face daily shortages. There are many myths which deter people from donating. The most common concern is that they are afraid needles and it is a very painful experience. However, it is not, in fact, it is less painful than the usual flu injection. I also tell people not to be afraid as the SANBS staff are competent and will make them feel comfortable. Another myth is that it takes a long time, but in reality, the process takes less than 20 minutes. In the end, it is actually one of the most rewarding experiences. 

“I also encourage people to donate for the right reasons. Do not donate for the gift you might receive but donate to save lives. You will transform from an ordinary human being into a hero,” she said.

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