Four international organizations, including the World Health Organization, have joined together to mark World Blood Donor Day each June 14.  Naturally, some Voice writers have rolled up their sleeves and wrote about it.

It’s in you to give.  Katie D’Souza outlines the need for blood donations during Blood Donor Week.  “It is estimated that approximately one in two Canadians can donate usable blood. However this year, only 1 in 60 has done so, notes Canadian Blood Services.”  Health Matters – Blood Donor Week, June 17, 2011.

Beyond blood.  Jody Waddle recounts how donating blood regularly spurred her to sign up for the bone-marrow registry.  “The mental effect will last me a lifetime. I also came out knowing that my very rare blood type was very much in need, as the Canadian Blood Services still calls me every eight weeks to ask if I will be at the next donation clinic.”  What Are You Willing to Give?,  January 12, 2005.