EDMONTON — During the summer months, more fatalities occur on Canadian roads than any other time of year, according to the Canadian Safety Council. And because many regular blood donors are away on vacation, Canadian Blood Services says its overall national inventory has been on a severe decline.
The organization says it needs a boost in donors to meet the needs of patients over the long weekend especially, and are asking people to donate before and afterwards.
It can take up to 50 donors to save one person’s life, says Canadian Blood Services.
“Summer is a challenging time for blood collection … this is great time for new donors to join us and help prevent a further decline in the national inventory,” says Mark Donnison, vice president of donor relations. “Platelets derived from blood are critical to help stop bleeding and unfortunately expire just five days after a blood donation.”
READ MORE: 5 things to know about donating blood
In 2012, Trevor Smith received 71 units of blood during several surgeries after a horrific motorcycle accident that nearly cost him his life.
“If it hadn’t been for the people donating and hadn’t been for the supply of blood on hand, I wouldn’t be here today,” Smith said.
“It doesn’t matter how good the surgeons are or how good the trauma teams are – if they don’t have blood to give you, it’s game over.”
Since his accident he has become passionate about encouraging people to become donors and help others beat the odds.
Canadian Blood Services needs 16,000 units of blood to meet its needs each week. Platelets help with blood clotting and are ideal for cancer and trauma patients.
Red blood cells last for a mere 42 days. They carry iron and oxygen and help the lungs exhale. Plasma can last up to a year is used for immune system deficiencies, hemophilia, and to treat burn victims, according to World Health Organization.
Appointments can be booked over the phone or online, and walk-ins are also welcomed at all donation centres.
For more information about blood, plasma, or platelet donation visit Canadian Blood Services’ website.
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