Give thanks, give blood

Canadian Blood Services is encouraging all eligible donors to make blood donation part of their Thanksgiving celebrations.

There is a blood donor clinic being held after the Thanksgiving long weekend in Sudbury at the Sudbury Permanent clinic (944 Barrydowne Road) on Oct. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

There is always a greater need for blood around long weekends so book an appointment today and give thanks by giving life through blood donation. Platelets are of particular concern because of their short shelf life.

Regina’s Nathan Morrison knows how it feels to give life; he has been donating platelets for over 5 years.

“It’s a rewarding feeling knowing that each time I donate I have made a positive and immediate impact on someone’s life,” said Morrison.

“If you are able, willing, and healthy enough, I would strongly encourage you to donate.  It’s in you to give and there are many people who require platelets to help them survive.”

“People like Nathan make a big difference,” said Tracy Smith, director of donor relations for the Manitoba and North Eastern Ontario region.

“His donated platelets and those of others are derived from blood and are critical to help stop bleeding.  Unfortunately, they expire just five days after donation and the supply needs constant replenishment.  So if you’re on the road this Thanksgiving we encourage you to give where you go by downloading our GiveBlood App and finding a clinic close to your destination.  You could even make it a family affair by bringing along others to donate with you.”

Join Canadian Blood Services, or find another clinic near you and book an appointment to give life by using the Give Blood App or by visiting blood.ca.

Donors can also walk-in to one of our clinics without an appointment.  This weekend is the perfect time to bring a family member to a clinic and give thanks by giving life. Why not take a selfie while you’re there and tag #givelife to show friends and family that they shared what matters most…Life.