Red Deerians showed up in bunches to donate blood at the Red Deer Blood Donor Clinic on Saturday.
John Bouw, a local transplant recipient, and his family called on the community to not only donate blood, but to register as an organ donor.
Approximately 30 people showed to support the cause.
Judy Jones, Blood Services Associate Director for the Prairies and N.W.T., said the number of donors needed across Canada and central Alberta is fairly steep.
“Nationally we need a 100,000 units from Oct. 11 to Nov. 11. We are really trying to encourage new donors to come in. In central Alberta we need 200 new donors every month to help support the blood system,” said Jones.
She added the importance behind giving blood is much more significant this time of year.
“Today was a great opportunity to let individuals in Red Deer know about the need for blood and blood donations. Around the long weekend the need increases with so many people travelling,” said Jones.
Jones said having Bouw and his family at the clinic makes the importance of donating that much more real.
“Having somebody here who has needed blood and blood products gives a face to the organization and to those patients,” said Jones. “Most people who come in and donate don’t actually ever see the patient they are helping or see the immediate impact they are giving within in their community.”
In 2012, Bouw received two new lungs, a new heart and four units of blood to survive surgery. He can’t stress enough how important it is to give blood.
“Red Deer has a shortage of blood right now and almost everybody is going to know someone who will eventually need blood. It’s a pretty important thing for people to do,” said Bouw.
Jones said it can be challenging to get people in to donate and understands that life can be busy, but she would like to see more of a commitment.
“It’s really about keeping the awareness up. If you’ve said you should give blood one day, then why doesn’t today be that day,” said Jones.
Donor Sarah Milewicz is one person who has really made a commitment to donating blood. She has donated blood 37 times with a goal of reaching 100. It’s her way of giving back.
“It’s an easy way to help the community and help people out. It only takes an hour and you help save people’s lives,” smiled Milewicz.
To find out more information or to book an appointment, download the GiveBlood app or visit www.blood.ca.