Local Blood Donors, Volunteers and Partner Groups receive National Honours for “Lighting Up Lives”

Honouring our Lifeblood recognizes life-saving contributions coast to coast

OTTAWA - September 10, 2012 – Canadian Blood Services will honour and celebrate local individuals and partner groups nation-wide for their contributions to Canada’s blood system at a national ceremony being held in Ottawa on September 10 at the National Gallery of Canada.

The annual Honouring our Lifeblood ceremony will recognize donors, volunteers, peer recruiters, partners, and sponsors from across the country who provide a lifeline to hundreds of thousands of Canadians who need blood, stem cells, or organs and tissues for being the stars that light up the lives of Canadian patients. Fittingly, the theme for this year’s event is “Lighting up Lives”.

Awards will also be presented in the categories of Lifetime Achievement, National Employee Award of Distinction and a Schilly Award for excellence in recruitment and promoting awareness of the need for blood, stem cells, or organs and tissues.

“It is significant that we celebrate individuals and organizations who are the heart of Canada’s blood system in order to inspire others to follow their lead and join the movement,” says Dr. Graham Sher, Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Blood Services. “Giving blood, blood products and stem cells, and supporting the efforts of those who do, can be very fulfilling. These altruistic acts by Canadians who share their vitality can have a direct impact on the lives of others in need.”

Each year, hundreds of thousands of blood donors and volunteers, as well as numerous community groups, sponsors and partners, work together to help ensure that those needing blood receive it. Without their time and generosity, Canadian Blood Services would not be able to provide the life-saving blood, stem cells, and organ and tissues required by patients from coast to coast.

This year Canadian Blood Services needs close to one million blood donations to keep up with hospital demand. People interested in more information on how they can become involved should contact Canadian Blood Services at 1 888 2 DONATE (1 888 236-6283) or visit us online at www.blood.ca.