Extreme weather blamed for drop in blood donations

Canadian Blood Services is pleading for blood and plasma donations, blaming winter storms and extreme cold for cancelled appointments around the country.

Ron Vezina, a spokesperson for the organization, said there has been 1,500 fewer donations than expected over the last six days alone.

“Hospitals have the blood they need today, but that could change if we are not able to collect a consistent supply,” said Vezina in a news release.

The charity is adding extra incentive: anyone who books and attends a blood or plasma appointment or joins the stem cell registry before March 31 can enter to win round-trip tickets to anywhere Air Canada flies.

To book an appointment, visit blood.ca, use the GiveBlood app or call 1-888-2-DONATE.

Walk-ins are also welcome.