Blood Signal extended until Labour Day

Nearly 12,000 unfilled appointments pose challenges for blood inventory; donors needed now to fill gap

July 29, 2013 (Ottawa) - As a result of nearly 12,000 unfilled appointments so far this summer, coupled with constant hospital demand, Canadian Blood Services is forecasting a need for 51,000 appointments to be filled between now and Labour Day to replenish stocks.

For that reason, Canadian Blood Services has extended the Blood Signal until Sept. 3 and is adding special “Blood Signal” clinics during the month of August in selected locations. Hours will also be extended at existing clinics to give donors even more opportunities to donate. Visit www.blood.ca/clinics to find a clinic.

The Blood Signal is a call to action for Canadians to rally together and book a blood donation when the need is greatest - like now.

“Canadian Blood Services operates a national system and we are able to draw on our national reserves at times like these, says Susan Matsumoto, Donor and Clinic Services Executive Director. “Every summer is a challenge, but this year the trend is especially concerning as there are 51,000 appointments to fill between now and September 3 to keep blood inventory at an acceptable level.”

The summer months are always challenging for Canada’s blood supply and we are not alone; donations are soft in other countries as well. Blood systems in the U.S. and the U.K. have recently issued urgent appeals for blood donors due to fewer donations being made this summer and overall blood inventory levels falling.

“No patient goes without blood,” says Matsumoto. “But with so many open appointments we need Canadians to book and donate now.”

We ask those who already have an appointment to make every effort to keep it and, if you can, bring a friend to donate. To book an appointment is easy, please visit www.blood.ca or call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283). Making an appointment now will ensure that patient needs are met this summer.

Canadians are asked to give blood at their local community donor clinic during this time.

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