A decline in donors

It’s a problem Gayle Voyer at the Canadian Blood Services says she’s stunned to see: donations of blood are dropping across the country, and B.C. is no exception.

“We actually are trying to get to the bottom of that. We see a 10% decline in cancellations or missed appointments, and that could be due to sickness, maybe people travelling, or people just not remembering their appointments,” she explains.

Voyer says the national inventory has seen a 25% decrease in supply, which can be life-saving for someone who needs a transfusion. “All blood types are needed at this time,” says Voyer, “however, we do have a special callout for our O negative donors, because they’re the universal donor. Their blood can actually go to any patient.”

Canadian Blood Services will be hosting a handful of drives in the weeks to come. One event will be taking place on June 2 at the Anvil Centre, and there will also be events on July 14 and August 18. Appointments are ideal and can be set up on the Canadian Blood Services website, or through the GiveBlood app.

If you’re a first-time donor, Voyer says you’ll be in good hands. “We like to think of it as somebody welcoming you into their home,” she explains. Donors will take part in a wellness check and Voyer says there will be plenty of social distancing to make sure people feel safe.

“Make sure you stay hydrated, I’d say a couple of litres of water the day before. Making sure you have a solid meal about an hour before.” It’s also important to bring your government ID.

“And yes, at the end there is cookies and juice! You know, it’s a free pass where if you want a few of each, go for it.”

Donors will also get a card in the mail telling them what blood type they have.

“We often hear from donors that they’re not sure if they’re needed, or that they haven’t been asked to donate,” says Voyer. “If I can say one thing today, it’s that I’m asking you to please book your appointment. If you can, please bring friends. You are needed today, and throughout the summer.”