File Photo.
They say it’s in you to give, but this holiday season, Canadian Blood Services is concerned their blood bank may run dry.
So, they’re calling on donors across the country to make sure enough there is enough blood in the bank to help those in need over the holiday season.
Canadian Blood Services is calling on more than 30,000 blood donors to donate so they can keep up with holiday demand. The organization says they’re looking at a low supply specifically of platelets, a vital blood component that helps blood clot.
The timing of Christmas and New Year’s this year has resulted in fewer collection opportunities and has the organization concerned.
“Statutory holidays in December will impact our platelet supply, but blood donors can help ensure they are available by booking and keeping their appointments by Jan. 6,” said Rick Prinzen, Canadian Blood Services’ chief supply chain officer.
The organization says the holiday period is already a typically difficult time to collect blood, with regular donors away or busy with the holiday season.
“The need for blood does not take a holiday, which is why donations at this time of year are so vitally important for patients,” says Prinzen.
“We strongly encourage eligible donors to give blood. Your support will ensure we continue to help every patient, match every need and serve every Canadian.”
Blood donations over the holiday season are needed for a wide range of procedures from chemotherapy treatments, trauma victims, cardiac surgeries, to organ transplants, procedures that all routinely take place between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
To book a blood donation appointment today, locate a donor center, or check your eligibility to donate blood visit blood.ca.
CHEK News
