THUNDER BAY – As Canada observes National Blood Donor Week from June 8 to 14, Thunder Bay is celebrating the success of its new plasma donation centre which opened in April and is operated by Canadian Blood Services.
“The Thunder Bay, the community is amazing,” said Jennifer Rose, community development manager for Sudbury and Thunder Bay at Canadian Blood Services.
“They've come out and shown up for the new plasma centre. There are new donors coming in daily to book appointments, learn about plasma donation, and try it out. It's fabulous news, and we’re hoping to keep the momentum going.”
Plasma, a gold-coloured liquid that makes up about 55 per cent of a person’s blood, is critical in creating medications like immunoglobulin, which is used to treat a variety of immune deficiencies and other health conditions. As demand rises, Canada is working to reduce its reliance on imported plasma.
“Plasma is an immune boosting superpower and we've seen the need increase, so we're trying to get more self-sufficient in Canada,” Rose explained. “We are relying a lot on global markets right now, so almost 70 per cent of our plasma in Canada is imported from other countries, largely from the US.”
“Every day there are new trials and treatments that depend on it, and we’ve really seen the need increase. That’s why it’s so important that we become more self-sufficient here in Canada.”
Last month, Canadian Blood Services announced its new recruitment goal of one million new donors in the next five years.
The donation process is safe and relatively simple. Blood is drawn, plasma is separated by a machine, and red blood cells are returned to the donor’s body. Because of this, donors can give plasma more often than whole blood, some as frequently as once a week.
“The process is very similar to donating blood,” said Rose. “It just takes a little bit longer.
"You don’t feel anything when the blood is going out or coming back in, so don’t let that discourage you. And because your red blood cells are returned, you can donate more often.”
All donated plasma undergoes testing before being used, and donor eligibility is carefully screened to ensure both the safety of the plasma supply and the health of the donor. Rose encourages potential donors to visit the Canadian Blood Services website and take the eligibility quiz, even if they’re unsure if they qualify.
“Even if you think you can’t donate, I always suggest people check,” she said. “Sometimes it’s something small, like a recent trip or medication, but it’s worth looking into.”
At this time, Thunder Bay’s centre is not set up to collect whole blood due to logistical challenges, including the short shelf life of whole blood and the transportation requirements for rapid processing and delivery. Still, Rose said, the city’s commitment to plasma donation is making a real difference.
