Canadian Blood Services is reminding British Columbians that as the highways fill with summer vacationers, so does the likelihood accidents will occur - and a blood donation could help save a life.
The need for blood is constant and significant, according to a CBS press release, which is why, this long weekend, communities, groups and families across the country are encouraged to make a donation of blood.
Summertime is when donors often change their routines, take vacations and are involved with outdoor activities, so donating blood may not always be top of mind. However, the need for blood does not take a summer vacation.
How much blood is needed to save a life? According to CBS:
car accident victim - up to 50 donors;
leukemia patient - up to eight donors a week for several weeks;
cardiovascular surgery patient - up to five donors;
a patient with internal bleeding - up to two to eight donors;
aplastic anemia patient- up to four donors a month;
bone marrow transplant patient - up to two donors a day;
brain surgery patient - up to two donors;
hip replacement patient - up to two donors.
There are plenty of opportunities to donate blood this summer. It only takes about an hour and appointments are recommended to help reduce clinic wait times.
BOOK A TIME
To book online, visit www.blood.ca; alternately, you can call 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283).
