Canadian Blood Services is asking people to think about rolling up their sleeves and sign up as a donor this summer, a time of year when the need for blood often surges.
The organization says appointment bookings are falling short of hospital demand for both blood and plasma.
Edmonton, for example, still has around 200 appointment slots open before July 1st.
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It says half of Canadians are eligible to donate blood, but only about one in 76 actually do.
All blood types are needed, but O-negative, O-positive and B-negative are extremely vital.
“Donating is such a meaningful experience,” Canadian Blood Services spokesperson Tianna Doyle said.
“You are really saving people’s lives when you come out and spend that hour with us. The needle is only in your arm for five to 10 minutes, so it’s a really small component of the actual appointment time.”
Canadian Blood Services is aiming for one million new donors over the next five years.
To book an appointment, head to blood.ca or call 1-888- 2-Donate.
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