Spare some samples?

by Stacey Janzer

Check if your heart is beating. Good news it is. Take some of the blood it’s pumping out and help a fellow human being. Canadian Blood Services are looking for donors.

“We are looking for O negative and A negative blood, but we are in need of all blood types,” said Joan Hannah, Community Development Coordinator for the Canadian Blood Services.

Donors must have valid identification and be at least 17 years old.

Hannah said people between the ages of 17 and 23 need to call 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283) to check the height and weight requirements and to book an appointment.

St. Clair College South campus will host a blood drive Jan. 28. Those interested can walk in or book an appointment.

“Come on out and donate,” said Hannah. “We need you all.”

St. Clair is also hosting a stem cell drive on Friday, Jan. 30.  One Match, the stem cell program is also a branch of CBS.

Kate Isley, Student Representative Council president at St. Clair College said both drives are open to the public.

“We only do the bone marrow clinic once a year,” said Isley. “We would love to get the students involved.”

Isely said they are looking specifically for males between the ages of 17 and 35, but everyone is encouraged to come.

Isley said they would like to have a blood drive at the downtown campuses, but was not sure if enough people would attend.

“I would go,” said Josh Dowker, MediaPlex travel and tourism student. Dowker was unsure if he would be able to donate to the blood drive as he is gay.

According to the Canadian Blood Services website there is a ban on blood from gay men. Health Canada requires a five year period from their last sexual activity before they can donate.

If you cannot make it out to the main campus then visit Canadian Blood Services which is located on 3909 Grand Marais Rd. E.