Thursday, March 28, 2024

These three cultural icons’ lives were saved by blood transfusions

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It’s no secret that the year of 2020 will go down in history as one for the books, but despite that, there is still so much out there to be grateful for.

And in this season of thankfulness, it’s important not to forget about those less fortunate; such as hospital patients, people undergoing life-changing surgeries and even car crash victims.

Transfusions from blood donations can literally mean life or death for many of those.

Did you know that prolific cultural icons Andy Warhol, Stephen King and George Lucas’ lives were saved by blood transfusions?

Transfusions (and the need for them) are actually more common than you think. More than 4.5 million patients need blood transfusions each year in the U.S. and Canada.

Despite all of these common threads, one positive thing about the above that is that you have the power to help – and it doesn’t cost a thing!

Next week, next month and next year, the need for blood is constant, and this is where Canadian Blood Services comes in. 

You have the power to save lives not just now, during the holiday season, but all year long; and it’s already in you to give.

Every 60 seconds someone in Canada needs blood, and as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues, many in the community have stepped up to do their part in helping the world navigate such uncertain times.

Despite this, there is still a demand for blood donations, as CBS has seen a decrease in bookings as well as an increase in cancellations during the fall season.

So if you are looking for a way to give back to your community this holiday season, Canadian Blood Services urges you to come out and roll up your sleeves; there’s even a free cookie in it for you!

Donating blood during a pandemic; is it safe?

Short answer: Yes!

Canadian Blood Services wants to reassure people that it is still completely safe to donate amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Not only are they pre-screening donors about their symptoms and travel history before they’re allowed to enter one of their donation centres, donors will also complete a temperature check.

All workers at the blood donor clinics practice physical distancing whenever possible, and they’re continuing to take infection control measures at all of their facilities.

To ensure everyone’s safety, face masks have become a mandatory requirement while within all donor centres as well.

How to donate

Ready to roll up your sleeves and become a donor? Here are a few simple steps to you get started:

  1. Find out if you’re eligible. Take CBS’ quiz and learn more about the ABCs of eligibility.
  2. Find a donor centre near you.
  3. Book an appointment. Booking in advance helps our clinic run smoothly and also helps us ensure your first donation experience is a good one.
  4. Learn more about the process.

Check out how easy it is to give blood here:

(Nicole’s video embedded)

Other ways to help

Not eligible to donate blood, or looking to give even more? We’ve got you covered.

You can donate your time as a volunteer with CBS, which is priceless!

On top of that, not only can you make financial donations to Canadian Blood Services, you can also launch online fundraisers, or even donate your car.

Check out how you can give even more.

Canadian Blood Services

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