Holiday blood donation shortage prompts call from Canadian Blood Services

Ron Vezina of Canadian Blood Services says donors are needed ‘on a constant basis’ during the holiday season.

Canadian Blood Services is calling on Canadians to roll up their sleeves in the final weeks of December, warning that blood and plasma donations typically drop during the holidays while patient needs remain constant.

The organization says year-end travel, statutory holidays and changing routines often lead to fewer appointments at donor centres, a challenge made more urgent because blood products are perishable and cannot be stockpiled.

“This time of year is when people change a lot of their habits, whether it’s work or getting together with friends,” said Ron Vezina, vice-president of public affairs at Canadian Blood Services in an interview with CTV News Channel Saturday. “But the need for blood and plasma and platelets continues.”

Patients undergoing cancer treatment or major surgeries often remain in hospital through the holidays, Vezina said, relying on donated blood products.

“We need donors on an ongoing basis, and typically those weeks between the holidays are very challenging for us,” he said.

This year, the organization is also facing additional pressures, including a strong flu season and an unpredictable winter weather.

Canadian Blood Services is encouraging people to consider donating as a group, with friends, family members or colleagues, saying many first-time donors come through the doors with someone they know.

“Giving as a group can turn a holiday gathering into something memorable,” the organization said in a news release, adding that donor centres remain open throughout the holiday period.

Vezina said there are many ways for people to get involved, depending on their blood type and eligibility.

“Some people are better predisposed to giving blood. (For) some people, it’s plasma. (For) some people, it’s platelets,” he said. “The best way is to come down and try a donation for your first time.”

The Canadian Blood Services operates nationally, except in Quebec, and runs thousands of donation events each year, including mobile clinics across the country.

“Our objective is to get you in and out in about an hour,” Vezina said. “When you think about that in the context of helping and saving lives, it’s a pretty meaningful use of time.”

Beyond helping patients, many donors say the experience itself is rewarding, he added.

“They feel a sense of community and accomplishment,” Vezina said. “It’s kind of a reciprocal benefit.”

Despite broad eligibility, he said donation rates remain relatively low. Canadian Blood Services estimates that about one in two Canadians could be eligible to donate, but only about one in 75 currently do.

Generally, donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds and be in good health, though some medical conditions and medications can affect eligibility.

In addition to blood and plasma, the organization also manages Canada’s stem cell registry, which connects donors with patients worldwide who need life-saving transplants. The program focuses on people aged 17 to 35, who offer the best outcomes for recipients.

“It’s a one-to-one donation, and it can absolutely save a life,” Vezina said.

Canadians can book appointments by visiting blood.ca, downloading the GiveBlood app or calling 1-888-236-6283.