A local member of parliament is hoping Canadians give the gift of life as a present for Canada 150.
Windsor West MP Brian Masse's office is teaming up with Canadian Blood Services in Windsor for a Canada 150 blood drive through Saturday. The goal is to collect 150 pints of blood from donors as part of the nation's birthday celebration. Masse, who donated blood himself on the first day of the drive Thursday, says it's a great way for Canadians to show their patriotic spirit.
"What else can you do for a country other than help save lives or help people heal?" says Masse. "The most generous thing is giving an unconditional gift and that unconditional gift is to help somebody heal or save a life. Those Canadians are real heroes."
While the need for blood donations is always there, the need is more acute during the summer months when donations are slower. A check of the Canadian Blood Services' official website on Friday showed that some blood types are needed more than others. The "universal" type O-negative, for example, showed a two-day inventory as of Friday morning, which means donations are greatly needed.
Masse says a regular stream of donations is critical to meet the demand for patients needing blood.
"It's a matter of fact that donations need to come in on a regular basis," says Masse. "As members of the community we were asked to participate and thought this was a wonderful opportunity."
Thursday looked encouraging for Canadian Blood Services as there was a steady stream of people coming through to give blood. While it was not clear how many people donated blood at that point, Masse has some advice for those hesitant to try it, it's easy.
"The attempt is to make sure we get that quota and I know it's been busy," says Masse. "People are coming in and I encourage anyone to just drop by. The screening process is really easy and there's nothing to be afraid of with that process."
Potential donors will have their blood checked to ensure iron content is high enough. They will also receive a temperature and blood pressure check and be asked some questions about their health. Those who pass the screening will have a pint of blood taken.
The donor clinic will be open on Canada Day itself, Saturday, from 8am to noon for donations toward the 150 pint goal. The Windsor clinic is located at 3909 Grand Marais Rd. E.
To make an appointment or get more information on this blood drive, call 1-888-236-6283 or click here.