On January 31st 2020, The Hub hosted a Blood Donation Drive, in partnership with Morija Museum & Archives, Morija Arts Centre and Lesotho Blood Transfusion Service (LBTS). We emptied our indoor space for the day, making laptops and tablets available outside for our young members!
“Many more people showed up than we expected!” said Moleboheng Rampou, a volunteer at The Hub. “We’re hoping to run Blood Drives like this at least twice a year, because the response has been great. The Hub works to bring people together in the community of Morija – with an event like this we’re spreading a message about the importance of caring for others. It’s not scary, it’s just a little prick. Donating blood can save lives – whether it’s for someone you know or someone you don’t know, it’s the right thing to do.”
Lineo Segoete, who had a recent health emergency, talked about the importance of donating blood and the work of the LBTS: “I needed blood transfusions recently, and there was no blood available in the blood bank. I had to ask family and friends to donate. We need to raise awareness about this situation, and the LBTS need better support. I’ve always known about the importance of blood drives, but I was passive about this issue before. My recent emergency has changed my mindset. I want to live healthier and be able to give blood often. It could happen to you or to someone you know, and being scared of needles is not a good enough excuse to not donate!”
Thapelo Sesoane of the LBTS explained that the beginning of the year is typically a time of crisis: “After the festive season our blood bank is empty and people in hospital have to get their relatives to donate. Blood drives like these can make a huge difference. I believe it’s the responsibility of everyone who’s in good health and above the age of 16 to donate at least twice a year. If everyone did this, we would not be facing this crisis – let’s all donate, it can save lives!”
The Lesotho Blood Transfusion Service are available to come and run a Blood Drive at organisations and in communities at no cost, and can be contacted on any of these numbers: +266 22 316 091 / +266 5860 9381 / +266 5886 3495
The Hub 