Staff
Canadian Blood Services once again is encouraging district residents to give the “gift of life” at its upcoming fall blood donor clinic here next month.
The clinic will run Wednesday, Sept. 9 from 4:30-8:30 p.m. and again on Thursday, Sept. 10 from noon-3 p.m. and 5-8:30 p.m. at Fort Frances High School.
Donors can make an appointment today by calling 1-888-2DONATE (1-888-236-6283) or visiting www.blood.ca
“We require 340 or more donors for this clinic to meet anticipated hospital demands,” said Harvey Heather, community development co-ordinator for Canadian Blood Services.
He noted the CBS has been experiencing a lower-than-normal turnout at many of its clinics this summer, so he’s highly encouraging area residents to donate and help save lives.
“Since a single unit [donation] of blood can help up to three people, up to 1,086 patients benefited from this clinic,” he remarked.
“Altogether last year, up to 2,091 patients were helped by Fort Frances and area donors.”
A total of 395 donors came out to Fort Frances High School last September, donating a total of 335 units of blood over the two days.
This was 39 units more than CBS’ goal for the clinic.
While donors are urged to make appointments to give blood, walk-ins will be welcome—although there’s no guarantee you won’t have to wait a while.
Overall, Heather said 90,000 new donors are needed this year to ensure blood is available for patients in more than 650 Canadian health care facilities, including hospitals in this area.
