RUSSELL – Blood donors are needed across the country to ensure patients’ needs are met this winter. Canadian Blood Services is asking Russell and area blood donors to roll up their sleeves on Jan. 9 to help ensure patients’ needs are met following a busy holiday season.

Donations tend to decrease during the holidays as regular blood donors often have seasonal commitments, travel plans or a change in their routine. Since blood products have a limited shelf life, the demand for blood never stops; cancer patients, accident victims, and people with blood disorders rely on blood transfusions every day.

A total of 120 blood donations are needed at the Russell Donor Centre on Jan. 9 to ensure local patients receive the blood they need.

Every minute of every day, a patient in Canada needs blood. Be a lifeline to Canadian patients and help them celebrate the holidays with those they love by donating at a donor centre near you.

Visit the Russell Mobile Donation Centre, Wed., Jan. 9 at the Russell Arena, 1084 Concession St. from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

To book an appointment today, locate a donor centre, check your eligibility and more, download the GiveBlood app available on iOS or Android, visit www.blood.ca, or call 18882DONATE.