Canadian Blood Services (CBS) is urging local blood donors to book an appointment as soon as possible to help maintain the blood and platelet supply and grow the plasma supply for patients.
"What we are seeing right now with collections is actually quite typical of any winter in Canada," said a CBS official. "Weather makes it harder for people to travel at times and we often see a dip in collections during the winter months due to weather."
Cancer patients, accident victims and people with rare, life-threatening, chronic, and genetic conditions rely on blood, platelets, and plasma donations every day.
You can help. Two blood donation clinics are coming to Orillia in April.
Canadian Blood Services will be at the Best Western Plus Mariposa Inn and Conference Centre, at 400 Memorial Ave., April 6 from 1 to 7 p.m. and April 10 from 3 to 7 p.m.
All blood types are needed, especially O-negative since it can be transfused to any patient.
Appointments are required and can be made at blood.ca or by calling 1-888-2DONATE.
Late cancellations and missed appointments make it challenging to collect blood products. If you make an appointment, please try to keep it. If you are unable to make it to your appointment, please cancel it so we can find someone to take your place and consider re-booking as soon as possible.
