Chestermere Blood Donor Clinic

CHESTERMERE – Blood is required for many reasons including transfusions for cancer patients, those involved in accidents and medical operations. Approximately every minute of every day, someone in Canada needs blood. There is a constant need for blood and several Chestermere residents showed their dedication for giving to the ongoing donation program. Over 160 people made appointments and donated on December 17 to the mobile blood donor clinic which is held here at the Chestermere Recreation Centre MPP Room every other month. The minimum interval between whole blood donations is 56 days. There is a huge demand for blood at this time of year and especially on New Year’s Eve. At the time of this writing Canadian Blood Services was seeking more than 500 donors to meet the holiday demand and although that number has been reduced significantly, there were still more than a 190 appointment slots available. Giving a pint of your blood and an hour of your time is a small price to pay for something so vital for life.
The Chestermere Lions Club is always on hand and proud to provide snacks and refreshments after your donation. Not only are you giving the gift of life, but many consider the clinic a good way to connect with others in the community; a social event where you can sit and talk to your neighbour or meet someone new in the community.
The next blood donor clinic in Chestermere is Monday February 18th, 2013 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Chestermere Recreation Centre. Appointments are preferred however walk-ins are accepted if spots are available. Book your appointment today and make that appointment the very first note in your new 2013 calendar. Call 1-888-2-DONATE.
The basic eligibility to donate is you must be at least 17 years of age, in general good health, and feeling well on the day of your donation. If you have never donated before and have had your 61st birthday, or if you are between the ages of 67 and 71, and have not donated within the last two years, you must be assessed by a physician who must fill out and sign the following letter. You must also meet the other standard requirements for donation.