Key Takeaways:
- Wagner just received a pin and a certificate from the Canadian Blood Services for his efforts, but he doesn’t donate for the recognition.
- According to Peters, finding donors who visit a clinic on a regular basis can help provide a steady supply.
Terry Wagner started donating blood about ten years ago, then plasma and platelets.
Wagner just received a pin as well as a certificate from the Canadian Blood Services in recognition of his efforts, but he doesn’t donate for the recognition.
“This past weekend, a buddy of mine in Halifax had surgery and required 25 units of blood. “It just cascades into many different things if that donor on the other end of that system doesn’t make it happen,” Wagner said, adding that if he ever needs blood, he hopes there will be ample resources.
Canadian Blood Services desperately needs more reliable donors like Wagner to replenish inventory.
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The national blood supply has decreased by 25% since April. There are 550 open donor appointments in Atlantic Canada, with 151 in Halifax, 158 in Moncton, and 58 in Saint John.
Canadian Blood Services’ community development manager for Moncton & eastern New Brunswick is Brandy Peters.
“It’s not feasible.” “We can’t rely on generous donors who contribute as much as they can to save us for long periods,” Peters said of current supply levels.
The amount of donors has slowed in previous COVID-19 pandemic waves.
Late cancellations and missed visits due to recent sickness have been up 10% since mid-March, indicating that looser constraints are causing more problems for donor attendance.
According to Peters, summer has historically been a challenging time for blood donations.
“We recognize that we must be prepared for the next summer months, so we’re encouraging donors to schedule appointments this week or next month to ensure consistent donations.” “Assume it as a marathon rather than a sprint,” Peters advised.
Finding donors who make a habit of visiting a center regularly, according to Peters, can assist offer a continuous supply.
She also mentioned that the dread of giving might deter individuals, which kept Wagner away for a long time.
“I was quite nervous at first, so I took so long to get into the system.” But, if you get into that rhythm – and that’s part of it – they keep you at ease and are always concerned about your well-being while you’re there,” Wagner added.
Peters recommends using the GiveBlood app, calling 1-888-236-6283, or booking online at blood.ca to schedule an appointment.
Source: Global News
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