Spring Break is just around the corner, and for many, that means time off, getting away, and having fun.
However, while you may have vacation on your mind, patients across the country are thinking about their next medical treatment or are in the hospital, unable to fully enjoy this sunny season.
The need for blood doesn’t take a vacation—but you can make all the difference this Spring Break by donating blood in Victoria, whether it’s your first or 50th time!
Canadian Blood Services’ Victoria Donor Centre is open on Monday, April 1st (Easter Monday) and they have over 115 open blood donation appointments available over the holidays.
Thankfully, rolling up your sleeves for the first time comes with some surprising perks—and we’ve rounded up just a few of them:
Community connection
Blood donation strengthens a sense of community and brings people together—and the Victoria Donor Centre offers the opportunity for people from all walks of life to unite in helping those in need! Plus, you can bring a friend or even go as a group to donate, making that community connection all the more special.
Bonus health check-up
Regular blood donations mean you stay informed about your health!
Every time you donate blood, you get a mini check-up. Vital signs including temperature and hemoglobin level are often checked at each donation.
Know your type
One of the steps in signing up to donate blood or plasma is learning your blood type, which can be crucial for the many patients in need.
For example, donors with the O-negative blood type are critical in emergencies and frequently in demand. You might even find out you have a rare blood type that’s just the right match for a patient with special transfusion needs.
If it’s your first time, you may not even know what your blood type is until your appointment!
The happiness effect
Often, people donate because it feels good to help others.
Volunteering your time as well as donating much-needed blood and plasma is something to feel good about—knowing you’re making a positive impact on someone’s life is priceless.
Snacks!
The cherry.. or the crumb on top? Donating bloods means snacks, of course!
From cookies to chips, Canadian Blood Services is happy to provide you with the treats to keep you going after your donation—after all, you have to keep those glucose levels up!
Staying hydrated is also vital because water is one of the most important components of blood, so they will provide drinks, as well.
If you have any further questions about your eligibility to donate blood, call 1-888-2-DONATE for more information.
You can also visit Canadian Blood Services online to take a simple 2-minute eligibility quiz!
Click here to make an appointment and make a difference in someone’s life today.
You can also download the GiveBlood app for Apple and Android!
Canadian Blood Services, Victoria Donor Centre
- Where: 3449 Saanich Road
- When:
- Tuesday – 11:15 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Wednesday – 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Thursday – 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Friday – 8:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Saturday – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Sunday & Monday – Closed
- Book an appointment: Head online to see if you’re eligible and book your spot today!
