With the holiday season approaching, Canadian Blood Services is appealing for people to donate at upcoming clinics in Orillia.
“It is typically more challenging to collect blood during the last two weeks of December, but that is when donations are especially needed,” the organization stated. “With the timing of statutory holidays, regular collections schedules are interrupted, so it is important that every available appointment is filled on the days when donation centres are open.”
Canadian Blood Services notes platelets, which are part of every blood donation, have a shelf life of seven days.
“They are a vital blood component that helps make blood clot. One of the most common uses for platelets is to treat cancer patients. To make sure there is a steady supply of platelets, every available blood donation appointment needs to be filled.”
Donation clinics will take place Dec. 5 from 1 to 7 p.m. and Dec. 9 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Best Western Plus Mariposa Inn and Conference Centre, 400 Memorial Ave.
Appointments are required and can be made at blood.ca.
