Dear Editor:
On behalf of Canadian Blood Services, I’d like to take this opportunity to provide an update on our blood donation events in Erin.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been suspending whole blood collections at select mobile and fixed donor sites to address the immediate needs for blood and platelet collections.
Some venues are better able than others to accommodate physical distancing requirements and many fixed donor centres, like the ones in nearby Guelph and Mississauga will see expanded hours for donors.
Changes to where we hold donation events are allowing us to host larger events in fewer locations and make the best possible use of public funds. After careful review and consideration, we have made the difficult decision to suspend donation events in Erin.
Donation opportunities will continue to be offered at fixed and mobile donor centres in neighbouring communities, including Orangeville, Acton, Georgetown, Fergus, Guelph and Mississauga.
We are deeply grateful to donors in Erin for their commitment and encourage them to continue contributing to Canada’s Lifeline.
We have been blessed with the support of the Erin Legion, which has hosted our events over the years. We wouldn’t have a clinic without a venue, so our thanks go out to them! We also want to take this opportunity to acknowledge our dedicated volunteer team led by Dr. Duncan Bull, a champion of our organization for some 33 years, along with members of the local Optimist Club and Masonic Lodge, who have doted over our donors ensuring they had a wonderful donation experience.
Our goal is always to ensure all donors continue to receive the best possible experience every time they donate. There are no changes to how hospitals and other centres will receive blood and blood products – including plasma and plasma protein and related products.
Canadian patients will continue to receive the blood products they need, where and when they need them.
To book an appointment for any upcoming donation event, download the GiveBlood app available for iOS on the App Store or for Android on Google Play, call 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283) or visit blood.ca.
In Wellington County, there will be a donation event at the Fergus sportsplex from 2:30 to 7:30pm on Aug. 27.
Together, we are Canada’s Lifeline. Thank you for being the reason – the connection – that keeps Canada’s Lifeline going.
Elaine StPierre,
Territory manager,
Donor relations, Canadian Blood Services