Canadian Blood Service's Week to Save Lives encourages people to donate blood

Photo: Contributed

Canadian Blood Services (CBS) has partnered with Canada Life for the Canada Life Week to Save Lives, encouraging Canadians to donate blood in their communities, including Kelowna.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, CBS is emphasizing the importance of donating blood to help ensure blood and blood products are available to those who need it.

Every minute, a Canadian requires blood and this doesn’t stop for a global pandemic.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, CBS has seen a drastic drop in blood donations as many events were forced to cancel among other unforeseen issues.

Donation appointments dropped by nearly 70 per cent in 2020. An average year would see more than 10,000 group appointments.

“Every day, someone in Canada needs blood and even with a global pandemic, this need doesn’t stop,” says president and chief operating officer for Canada Life Jeff Macoun.

“We’re proud to be partnering with Canadian Blood Services and Héma-Québec to raise awareness of Canada’s lifeline in communities across the country. Together, we can help ensure a strong, national blood supply is available to patients where and when they need it.”

There are other ways to support Canadians in need by registering to become a stem cell donor, making a financial donation to CBS or registering your intent to donate your organs and tissues.

Enhanced safety and sanitization measures are being followed at all donor centres to protect staff and donors. Appointments are required to ensure physical distancing.