The lives you save

blood donor

“I don’t know who helped saved my life,” says Andrea Campbell. “I can’t meet them or thank them personally – but I can give back. I can donate blood.”

In 2015, Andrea, a therapeutic recreational specialist with St. Joseph’s Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team, was the recipient of a massive blood transfusion as a result of a medical emergency. She was in her late thirties at the time. 

“The doctors told me that at least 45 people would have donated their time and blood to save my life,” recalls Andrea. “I immediately felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude that strangers had unknowingly saved my life. I felt a call to replace the blood I had been given to save my own life so there would be that chance for another person to live.”

According to Canadian Blood Services, 52 per cent of Canadian’s say they or a family member have needed blood or blood products at some point in their lives.

While Andrea’s story is powerful – she is far from alone. That’s why she, and others, will be giving the gift of life this year and taking part in the Canadian Blood Services’ (CBS) Hospital Challenge, which runs from Aug. 1 to Oct 12. This annual challenge sees hospitals across Ontario go head-to-head to donate the most units of blood per capita (employee population). Last year, St. Joseph’s finished in the top two.

With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, CBS has reported a significant drop in blood donations due to cancellations, fear and uncertainty. As hospitals continue to ramp up surgical services, blood donations are needed more than ever.

“Everyone’s reason for donating blood will be different,” says Andrea. “Until I had my experience, a blood donation wasn’t even on my radar. But it’s important to remind people that the time they take to donate blood does save lives. It saved mine - and I am incredibly grateful.”

Here’s how you can help:

Be sure your donation counts during the Hospital Challenge and at all times by registering with St. Joseph’s Partners for Life (PFL) program. Register with Partner ID: STJO012736.  

To register:

  • Go to www.blood.ca
  • Log into or create your blood.ca account
  • Select 'PFL ORGANIZATIONS' from the menu
  • Add St. Joseph's PFL ID (STJO012736) and select 'JOIN THE TEAM' (Existing members do not have to re-register.)

It is safe to donate during COVID-19. For information on frequently asked questions and enhanced CBS safety measures, visit www.blood.ca. 

ACT teams, part of a mental health program at St. Joseph’s Health Care London, provide specialized community-based services to adults living with severe, complex and persistent mental illness between the ages of 18 and 65.

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