Sask. needs blood donors - demand surpasses supply

SASKATCHEWAN — More than 4,000 blood donors are needed urgently in the province to fill demand,.

The saying goes, “Blood, it’s in you to give”. Canadian Blood Services say they need more than 2,300 people to donate blood between now and Dec. 28 at the Saskatoon donor centre on Emerson Avenue. At the Regina donor centre on Albert Street, CBS reports more than 1,800 people are needed to donate between now and Dec. 28 to fill demand.

“Distribution of blood to hospitals is outpacing the number of blood donations being made across Canada, including here in Saskatchewan,” says Paolo Oliveros, specialist, Strategic Communications for CBS.

It is estimated that Saskatchewan has more than 600,000 eligible donors yet, only two per cent of that number choose to make a life-saving blood donation.

“While Canadian Blood Services manages a national inventory and can move blood around the country, our blood system depends on donors showing up across Canada including people in communities in Saskatchewan,” CBS says.

A recent social media post from a blood donor garnered attention when he stated he observed the average age of donors at the clinic he attended were seniors or close to seniors.

CBS welcomes every age or blood type as long as the donor is healthy and able to donate. Donors must be at least 17 years of age and in good general health and feeling well.

Oliveros reminds donors that there will be mobile clinics on Nov. 7 in Davidson, Dec. 11 in Prince Albert and Dec. 19 in Yorkton. Donors can check their website at any time for donation details and statistics on blood donations at www.blood.ca. or download the Give Blood App or call 1-888-2-DONATE and book an appointment.

It is recommended donors drink lots of water and get a good night’s sleep and a healthy meal the day before. A salty snack and good hydration before donation also help. Donors are offered snacks and refreshments following their donation.

“Blood is a critical part of everyday medical care, including major surgeries, medical procedures, cancer treatments and managing diseases and disorders. There is no substitute. Blood donors help ensure hospitals in Saskatchewan receive more than 450 units of blood per week” says Oliveros.

“If by chance you are not eligible to donate, there are other ways to help Canada’s Lifeline,” CBS says.

“You can volunteer your time, if you are between the age of 17-35, you can join our stem cell registry, or you can register to be an organ donor, or make a one-time or recurring financial donation to raise funds in support of Canadian Blood Services. Financial contributions support national recruitment efforts that need a boost in times of great need, and we can invest in new innovative technologies and conduct research that will change tomorrow for the better.”

Even if the required, necessary donations were made it would only help get the Sask. Division of CBS on track but people are reminded that the need for blood is constant and shortages of those donations will have a direct impact on patient care.