Every year on May 28th, the world comes together to shine a light on a group of devastating illnesses, blood cancers, which include leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. On World Blood Cancer Day, we honour the fighters, remember the fallen, and empower communities with information that could save lives.
What is Blood Cancer?
Blood cancer affects the production and function of blood cells. Most begin in the bone marrow where blood is produced. Abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, disrupting the body’s ability to fight infection, transport oxygen, and control bleeding.
Main types of blood cancer:
- Leukemia – Cancer of the white blood cells.
- Lymphoma – Cancer of the lymphatic system.
- Multiple Myeloma – Cancer of the plasma cells in bone marrow.
Where to Go for Help and Support in South Africa
If you or someone you know is affected by blood cancer, or you’d like to get involved, here are some important organisations and facilities offering support and services:
To Join the Donor Registry or Get Tested
- DKMS Africa (The Sunflower Fund)
Branches nationwide
www.dkms-africa.org
0800 12 10 82
Offers free donor registration and information on stem cell transplants.
To Donate Blood or Platelets
- South African National Blood Service (SANBS)
Available in all provinces except the Western Cape
www.sanbs.org.za
0800 11 90 31 - Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS)
Western Cape Province
www.wcbs.org.za
021 507 6300
For Patient Support and Resources
- Leukaemia Foundation of South Africa
leukaemia.org.za
Provides patient support, awareness campaigns, and donor education. - Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA)
Regional Care Centres across South Africa
cansa.org.za
0800 22 66 22
Offers counselling, wigs, support groups, and patient accommodation. - CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA
Support centres near major paediatric oncology units
choc.org.za
Supports children with cancer and their families with practical and psychosocial help.
How You Can Help
Join the Donor Registry
- Joining DKMS’s stem cell registry takes minutes and could mean the world to someone waiting for a life-saving match.
Donate Blood or Platelets
- Regular donations are vital for patients undergoing chemotherapy or stem cell transplants.
Start or Support a Fundraiser
- Create or support a crowdfunding campaign for a cancer patient on platforms like BackaBuddy.
Share and Educate
- Use your voice to spread awareness. Share stories, facts, and resources using #WorldBloodCancerDay.
Wear Red on May 28
- Stand in solidarity with warriors by wearing red and encouraging conversations about blood cancer.
World Blood Cancer Day is more than a symbol, it’s a life-saving opportunity. Whether you’re helping someone get a diagnosis, joining the donor registry, or donating blood, your contribution can make an impact.