As National Blood Donor Week comes to a close, Canadian Blood Services is urging people to give.
The campaign began Monday, June 11 and wraps up on Sunday, June 17.
Marisa Gatfield, territory manager for Chatham-Kent and Windsor-Essex, says the need for blood is constant.
"Donating blood saves lives. That's what it boils down to," she explains. "Typically blood donations are used within five days to treat many different medical conditions, whether it be trauma victims, people fighting cancer, surgeries, or autoimmune diseases."
Gatfield says all blood groups are needed, but the blood group "O" is the probably the highest in demand because it is compatible with many different blood types. She says "O Negative," in particular, is the universal blood type and can be given to anyone.
"Here in Chatham, we have two clinics monthly--one on the Wednesday and on the Saturday. They can check us out at our website. They can certainly download the "Give Blood" app, make a profile, and then book their own appointments," she says. "They can also call 1 888 2 DONATE."
*With files from Greg Higgins
