submitted by Canadian Blood Services
There are more than 7,000 open appointments across Canada that must be filled by April 10 to replenish supplies to continue to meet patient needs.
The need for blood products never stops, especially during a long weekend and with the Easter public holiday just around the corner, we’re reminding Canadians to make all the difference by booking and keeping lifesaving appointments to donate blood, platelets and plasma.
Canadian Blood Services is grateful to the donors who help ensure the supply of lifesaving blood and plasma remains strong to help patients like ten-year-old Olivia Blundon.
Olivia was diagnosed with aplastic anemia and in the months that followed, she needed more than 100 blood and platelet transfusions. She has since required a stem cell transplant, has been diagnosed with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and will eventually need a kidney transplant. Olivia’s condition is closely monitored and the possibility of future transfusions remains high. Her family is counting on donors to maintain the blood supply so that she can get the blood she needs when she needs it.
Donors are needed now to grow the plasma supply and restock the reserve of blood. Cancer patients, accident victims, and people with immunodeficiency, autoimmune and neurological disorders rely on blood, platelets, and plasma donations every day.
While there is a continuous need for all blood types, there is a greater need for donors who have O-negative blood. O-negative blood donors are especially needed because this blood type can be transfused to any patient. In times of emergency or for newborn patients, O-negative blood, the universal blood type, makes a lifesaving difference.
Appointments are required. Same day appointments are available every day at many donor centres and community events across the country.
Book now on blood.ca, use the GiveBlood app or call 1 888 2 DONATE (1 888 236-6283).
New and returning donors are asked to book and keep their donation appointments. If you are unable to make it to your appointment, please cancel it so that someone can take your place or re-book into the following month.
