(Blood donation image via Shutterstock)
Canadian Blood Services is in immediate need of blood donations this holiday season and has called for more than 30,000 donors across the country.
CBS is predicting the risk of a low supply of platelets — a vital blood component with a seven-day shelf life — between Christmas and New Year’s.
“Statutory holidays in December will impact our platelet supply, but blood donors can help ensure they are available by booking and keeping their appointments by January 6,” says Rick Prinzen, Canadian Blood Services’ chief supply chain officer.
Prinzen added the holidays are typically a challenging time to collect blood, with many regular donors away or busy with seasonal commitments.
In Winnipeg, more than 1,600 blood donors are needed by January 7.
“But the need for blood does not take a holiday, which is why donations at this time of year are so vitally important for patients.”
Blood donations over the holiday season are also needed for chemotherapy treatments, as well as trauma victims, cardiac surgeries, and organ transplants — procedures that all routinely take place between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Donor appointments can be made online or through the GiveBlood app for iOS and Android devices.
