Chamber member Canadian Blood Services is calling on eligible donors to book a blood donation appointment after Canada’s blood supply declined by nearly 20 per cent since June 1.

Every week, Canadian Blood Services needs approximately 18,000 booked blood donation appointments to keep pace with hospital demand. Over the past six weeks, appointments have fallen short by 1,500 to 2,500 each week, requiring existing inventory to be used to meet patient needs.

While donations typically decline during the summer months, current appointment bookings have fallen well below usual summer patterns. Donors of all blood types are needed now to help replenish the blood supply and support hospitals with everyday care and emergency needs.

Blood has a shelf life of only 42 days, meaning today’s donation can quickly make its way to a patient. Canadian Blood Services notes the need is especially important heading into the August long weekend, when trauma cases and urgent care needs may increase.

Upcoming blood donation events in Langley include:

Church in the Valley, 23589 Old Yale Road
Wednesday, July 29; Thursday, July 30; Wednesday, September 30

Willoughby Christian Reformed Church, 20525 72 Avenue
Friday, August 7; Friday, August 21; Saturday, September 5; Wednesday, September 9; Thursday, September 10; Friday, September 18

Brookswood Secondary School, 20902 37A Avenue
Friday, August 14; Saturday, August 15

Eligible donors are encouraged to book an appointment as soon as possible at blood.ca, through the GiveBlood app, or by calling 1-888-2-DONATE. Those who are unable to donate right away are encouraged to book an appointment later this summer.

If you already have an appointment, Canadian Blood Services asks that you keep it. If you are unable to attend, cancelling in advance allows another donor to take your place.