As fall approaches, Canadian Blood Services is looking to stock up on its supplies.
In Sooke, the organization is looking to fill 86 blood donor appointments for its Sept. 23 clinic.
Over the last several years, Canadian Blood Services has increased its visits to Sooke, from every eight weeks to nine times a year.
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This year, the mobile clinic also increased the number of beds to six, forcing a change of venue from the Royal Canadian Legion to Journey Middle and Sooke Elementary schools. (This month’s clinic is at Journey, beginning at noon).
“If the community of Sooke wouldn’t be able to support it, we wouldn’t be able to undertake the growth,” Patricia Willms, the event coordinator for Canadian Blood Services, said.
“Sooke’s has been amazing in its support.”
Willms said blood services hopes to collect 86 units of blood at the Sooke clinic, and is especially looking for donors with Type O-negative blood.
Though all types of blood are needed, the blood type most sought after is O-negative, as this can be safely administered to anybody whether they’re AB, A+, O+ and so on.
A full list of eligibility requirements is posted on Canadian Blood Services’ website. All donors must be 17 or older and in good health.
“Sometimes if you travel outside North America, it can affect your eligibility,” Willms said, adding a high temperature or the donor feeling under the weather can also hamper those wishing to donate.
To donate, you can make an appointment online, call ahead, or just show up.
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