Everyday heroes needed to give blood

This upcoming Labour Day long weekend means Canadian Blood Services is looking for more 'everyday heroes' to boost the blood supplies at local hospitals. As the long weekend approaches, Canadians rush to hit the highways and waterways, which leads to greater potential for accidents with injuries requiring blood transfusions.

"We are currently in the summer season with a higher amount of trauma. It's important that Canadians understand the need for blood at this time," said Tami Clark, Clinic Recruitment Coordinator, Canadian Blood Services. "New and returning donors are especially welcome at all area clinics, with some families taking advantage of their holidays to donate together. We need residents to make an appointment to donate before, during and after the long weekend so patients can continue and receive their blood transfusions."

During the Civic Holiday long weekend, Canadian Blood Services held its 2006 'Sirens for Life' blood donor challenge, engaging emergency service workers police, firefighters and EMS to save lives by donating blood during the summer months. The goal of the "Sirens for Life' challenge was raise 1,100 units of whole blood from July 1st through September 4th to help local patients. Members of the public are also encouraged to support their local police, fire and emergency medical services' departments by donating blood on behalf of these groups.

If you would like to donate during the summer months please contact Canadian Blood Services at 1-8882DONATE (1-888-236-6283) for blood donor clinic information, eligibility information or to book an appointment.

There will be a blood donor clinic at the Innisfil Community Church, located at 1571 Innisfil Beach Road, on August 17th.