BY BRENT FOX

bfox@kentvilleadvertiser.ca

NovaNewsNow.com

Two people who owe their lives to blood donations thanked those who have given many times.

Little Kylie Stanley, mom Chantal and grandfather Gerry Morey were on hand in Coldbrook May 13 to thank Canadian Blood Services (CBS) Valley donors who have given 50, 75, 100 and 150 units of blood. They were joined by Lions Club member and long-time blood services and community volunteer John Rafuse, who received three units of blood last year when he suffered a heart attack.

Kylie was born with a rare immune deficiency and has received blood, blood products and a bone marrow transplant in order to survive. She has spent many months in hospital in Halifax and Toronto during her young life. She gave an enthusiastic “thank-you” to those gathered.

The event was to acknowledge 77 Valley donors who have provided a total of more than 5,000 units of blood. Blood Services Atlantic regional director Peter MacDonald said “thank you all so much for saving lives. It’s the magnitude of the work that goes on every single day. It’s our responsibility to make the most of your gift.”

Each donation can help up to an average of three people.

MacDonald said, “our focus is on safety.” He pointed out Canada has one of the safest and most secure blood services in the world. Part of this is that donations are 100 per cent voluntary. He noted as well CBS is building good relationships with hospital institutions across the region.

CBS board member Lynn Mason told the donors, “you save lives.” Mason pointed out new donors are needed as older ones become ineligible due to their own health developments and medical technology provides more procedures that require blood products.

Rafuse also told the group, “if you can’t give blood, you can still be a volunteer.”

Rafuse himself has been unable to donate blood because of illnesses he suffered when young, but he has been a volunteer, setting up clinics, for years.