Weyburn has a strong history of support for Canadian Blood Services, with a mobile donation clinic stopping by Knox Fellowship Hall every three months. Community Development Manager for Canadian Blood Services Saskatchewan, Aaron Barlow, confirms that the September 2nd clinic has already filled all of it’s appointments.
“Weyburn historically has been a tremendous, tremendous supporter of Canadian Blood Services. We often see donors come in and rebook their next appointment during their visit. So right now, there's no availability for our next visit on September 2nd, which is a really good thing, but that doesn't mean that things couldn’t change in way of some last-minute cancellations.”
Barlow encourages people to visit blood.ca or call 1-888-236-6283 to check for any last-minute availabilities and book an appointment, and urges those with appointments to ensure they fulfill them – especially O-negative donors.
“There is a demand for O-negative blood as O-negative blood donors are universal donors, it is often what is used in emergency situations and in transfusion scenarios where seconds count. So if you happen to be an O-negative donor and have an appointment that day, just make sure that you're honouring it.”
Donors are encouraged to have conversations with friends and family about the importance of contributing to Canada’s Blood Services. Barlow notes that while O-negative blood is important, all blood types are welcome and needed to save lives across the country.
“Every day somebody in Canada requires blood and blood products to improve their quality of life. It can be used in life-saving measures, in routine surgeries, in way of combating illnesses and diseases.”
“There is no substitute for blood.”
“We rely on the generosity of donors, taking their time to make that appointment, to honour their appointment and help save patients' lives right across Canada.”
The donation process only takes a few minutes, plus the screening and recovery time. It's recommended that donors drink plenty of water before their appointment and maintain a balanced diet as it helps both the donation and following recovery.
The friendly staff will greet donors at the door upon arriving at their appointment. Donors will undergo a basic screening process to ensure eligibility. Following the donation process, donors will head to the recovery area where snacks and refreshments are provided.
“You walk away having felt like you have made a difference right here in our community and across Canada.”
More information on eligibility, blood products like plasma, platelets, and stem cells, volunteer opportunities, and organ and tissue donation can be found on Blood.ca. Previous donors can also download the Give Blood app to find upcoming donation events, book an appointment, and find information about their donor history, blood type, and hemoglobin levels.
"I just want to again extend our sincere thanks to the community of Weyburn and the surrounding area for their continued support of Canadian Blood Services. As mentioned, although we may not have availability, that just reflects the tremendous support that we do see from Weyburn and community."
This includes local businesses who encourage their staff to donate and advocating for the importance of blood donation. Barber Motors and Sharing Kailynn's Sunshine will be coming to Knox Fellowship Hall themselves to donate at the upcoming clinic.