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Blood donations needed over the holidays

Dec 17, 2018 | 3:45 PM

Canadian Blood Services is calling for more than 30,000 blood donors across the country between now and Jan. 6.

In Red Deer, the target is 500 appointments.

The call is to ensure blood and blood products are available to help patients this holiday season. In particular, there is a risk of having a low supply of platelets, a vital component of blood which has just a seven-day shelf life.

Platelets help blood clot and are used to treat many serious conditions.

“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.” 

To book an appointment, visit Blood.ca or download the GiveBlood app on your mobile device.