Blood donors needed for the holiday season

OTTAWA — Canadian Blood Services has put out a call for more than 30,000 blood donors to ensure patients get the help they need this holiday season.

In a news release, the organization says it’s predicting the risk of a low supply of platelets — a vital blood component with a seven-day shelf life. It says this is a result of the timing of Christmas and New Year’s which will result in fewer blood collection opportunities.

“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 Jan. 6,” says Rick Prinzen, Canadian Blood Services’ chief supply chain officer. “The holiday period is typically a challenging time to collect blood, with many regular donors away or busy with seasonal commitments. 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.”

Canadian Blood Services highlights one story of an 18-month-old Vancouver girl who was diagnosed with a form of leukemia in September 2016. She received extensive chemotherapy treatment followed by a stem cell transplant in February 2017.