Celebrating blood donors during the pandemic and beyond
During these uncertain times, we are thrilled to recognize the vital contributions that volunteers make to the community, including Canada’s Lifeline and patients in Canada. Three Laurier alumni, Benjamin Seewald (BA ’02), Caitlin Feere (BA ’13) and Adrianna Crusoe (BMus ’14, MBA ‘20) are among those committed volunteers who recently gave blood. Together, they reach a milestone of giving over 63 times, which amounts to saving 189 lives! We had the opportunity speak with each of the as they share their story and experience during these unprecedented times.
What made you decide you wanted to donate blood?
Adrianna: I think it’s important to give back, and blood donations seem like one of the easiest ways to make a big difference if you’re eligible. Despite these challenging times, the need goes on. It takes an hour of your time but could save a life – that’s a pretty amazing return on investment!
Benjamin: I speak with people all the time who want to make their mark on the world, who want to leave a lasting legacy. Through my regular blood donations, I can literally save up to three lives per donation. That's a pretty incredible impact. And I always sleep really well after I donate!
Caitlin: I recently donated on March 30, 2020. I have never donated during a state of emergency/pandemic before. I did not have an appointment booked prior to the pandemic. I was inspired by watching a former soccer teammate on social media. She is 29 years old and was diagnosed with cancer a few months before the pandemic started. I have been following along on her journey to kick cancer’s butt! Not long after Ontario issued the state of emergency, she posted a video on social media about her first chemo treatment during the pandemic. That is when it dawned on me. Even though many things in my life "stopped" and "changed", there are many people who are fighting for their life who are unable to "stop" or "change" their treatment plans. I admire the strength, bravery and positive attitude that she has displayed on her journey and her vulnerability to share with others. Her video inspired me to call Canadian Blood Services to book an appointment.
Has it been a different experience to give blood during the COVID-19?
Adrianna: The major change during these times is that walk-in donations have stopped, so you must book an appointment ahead of time at blood.ca. The clinics have made process changes as well due to the pandemic, but all Canadian Blood Services’ safety measures made me feel extremely comfortable donating during this time. They are being tremendously thorough and have modified the clinic set up to help donors feel at ease and maintain distance from each other. The same friendly and welcoming staff are still there though!
Benjamin: Blood Services has a bit more rigorous infection control now (wiping down the chairs after each donor used it) and the nurses wear masks, but otherwise it is pretty similar. They've always had solid hygiene standards.
Caitlin: I found the process of donating blood during the pandemic to be similar and different compared to other times I have donated. For starters, they shared they are not accepting drop in’s and only by
appointment. When I arrived, the security asked me screening questions before I was permitted access to enter. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and doing their part to ensure the safety of the space. Less people were inside the space, most people (including Canadian Blood Services staff) were wearing masks, and the seating areas had 6 ft. between each chair (reduced numbers of chairs). I felt very safe, and secure throughout the whole process. It was clear the safety precautions were in place, and everything else was on par with my previous donation experiences.
Do you have any words of advice for new volunteers?
Adrianna: When I made my recent donation there was a new donor there and the extra support and information normally provided to new volunteers is still offered by the same kind and approachable employees. If you are nervous about making your first donation in this climate, I would encourage you to visit blood.ca/covid19 as there is a lot of information about the enhanced wellness measure in effect at clinics.
Benjamin: Supporting the health and wellbeing of my community doesn't have to wait for the pandemic to end. In fact, the best way for me to deal with the social isolation is to keep supporting my community.
Caitlin: For volunteers worried about volunteering during a pandemic – At the end of the day, do what is most comfortable for you. I personally was a bit hesitant when I walked up to the clinic. What motivated me was knowing that there are many people fighting for their life right now that would benefit from blood and that it is something I can contribute to. The process was the exact same as previous times I have gone before, only now everyone was more spaced out, lots of masks and hand sanitizer were available. I am glad that I overcame my hesitancy and took the time to donate and maybe you will too.
Laurier is a Canadian Blood Services Partner for Life. Each calendar year, the university makes a pledge of blood donations. This year, Laurier has pledged 350 units of blood.
To have your donation included in Laurier’s pledge: Fill out the Partners for Life Member Registration Form prior to donating and include Laurier’s partner ID (WILF001529).
When you arrive at the clinic tell staff you would like your donation to count toward Laurier’s pledge.
If you are unsure if you are eligible to donate, please visit the Canadian Blood Services eligibility page or call 1-888-2-Donate to talk with a nurse.