Canadian Blood Services is calling on all eligible Canadians to roll up their sleeves for patients.
With summer fast approaching, 200,000 blood donations will be needed over the next 10 weeks to prepare to support patients’ needs over the warmer months, according to a press release.
The need for blood donations never takes a holiday, but with people away or busy with other activities, there tends to be fewer blood donations during the summer. Unlike previous years, recent factors, including new donation rules to protect the blood supply from the Zika virus, along with temporary deferrals associated with travel plans, seasonal health conditions like the flu and missed appointments have also put added pressure on Canada’s blood supply.
In North Vancouver, approximately 1,000 blood donations are needed to help patients throughout the summer. As well, there is a greater need for donors with Type O blood, but all donors are encouraged to get involved, says David Patterson, director of donor relations in the B.C. and Yukon region, in the release.
Upcoming clinics in North Vancouver include: May 11, 1-8 p.m., North Lonsdale Church (clinic target is 101 units); and May 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Carson Graham secondary (clinic target is 101 units).
For more information, download the GiveBlood app or visit blood.ca.
