Canadian Blood Services (CBS) is asking Sudbury area residents to think about donating blood products on this Thanksgiving weekend.
CBS said it is encouraging all eligible donors in the city to book and honour their appointments to donate blood, platelets, and plasma before and during the Thanksgiving long weekend.
"Thanksgiving, like other long weekends, can be a difficult time to collect donations as people are away or busy with family activities. Your donation to Canada’s Lifeline this Thanksgiving holiday can make all the difference for patients in need," said a news release.
CBS said the blood supply was improved over the summer, but the need is constant.
"Canada’s Lifeline is stronger today thanks to donors who helped restore the low reserve of blood this summer, and grow the plasma supply for patients, particularly those who need immunoglobulins. But the need is constant for blood, platelets, and plasma donors," said CBS.
The agency said all donations matter.
"They have a ripple effect that helps someone be there for their family, give back to their community, and improve the lives of others. When you donate, you help ensure we have a strong Canada’s Lifeline and shape someone’s tomorrow," said CBS.
At the Sudbury plasma donor centre at 900 Lasalle Boulevard, there are 148 open appointments to fill this long weekend. Donor centre hours are:
- Friday, Oct. 7 from 7 a.m.–7.30 p.m.
- Saturday Oct. 8 from 8 a.m.–2 p.m.
Canadian Blood Services is a not-for-profit charitable organization, regulated by Health Canada. Without the ongoing dedication of blood, platelet, and plasma donors, and those who register to be a stem cell, or organ and tissue donor, patients in Canada would not have access to lifesaving care where and when they need it, said CBS.
Cancer patients, accident victims, and people with rare, life-threatening, chronic, and genetic conditions rely on blood, platelets, and plasma donations every day. Thousands more new plasma and blood donors are needed across the country. You can book your appointment online at blood.ca, on the GiveBlood app, or by calling 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283).
