Canadian Blood Services and the Saskatchewan Roughriders have released the results of their Bleed Green campaign. The two not-for-profit organizations partnered for a season-long promotion designed to inspire Rider fans to give blood and save lives. The campaign ran June 1 to November 15 and during that time Canadian Blood Services received about 14 percent more donation appointment bookings compared to last year at the same time, representing an additional 700 appointments. Considering each blood donation can save up to three lives, Rider fans have helped save up to 2,100 lives just by rolling up their sleeves to give blood. "Rider pride really made the Bleed Green campaign a huge success," said Glenda Kolynchuk-Simpson, donor services manager, Canadian Blood Services. "Through blood donation, Rider fans have had a major impact on the lives of patients in need of blood. We extend our sincere thanks to the Saskatchewan Roughriders for partnering with us on this promotion and we thank Rider fans for making the most important decision to give blood."Throughout the season fans brought game-day ticket stubs to Canadian Blood Services' donor clinics in Saskatchewan to enter to win one of two autographed Roughrider jerseys; the winners were Pamela Engstrom of Assiniboia and Dawn Torvik-Wahba of Saskatoon.
In December, Canadian Blood Services needs to collect 4,800 blood donations in Saskatchewan to keep up with hospital demand. There will be a blood donor clinic in Weyburn on December 21 at Assiniboia Park Elementary School. The clinic runs from 1:45 to 3:45 and 5:15 to 8:30 p.m. Call 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283) for more information or to book an appointment to donate. Those donors who already have scheduled appointments are asked to please honour their appointment.
Healthy people can donate blood every 56 days, beginning at the age of 17. First-time donors after the age of 61, or regular donors who want to continue donating after their 71st birthday will need to consult their doctor for medical permission to donate. Donors must feel well and are required to have their donor card or photo and signature identification at the time of donation.
