Blood drive back

The Kahnawake Memorial Hospital Centre (KMHC) is getting ready to host its third blood donor clinic alongside Hema Quebec, giving Kahnawa’kehró:non a chance to roll up their sleeves and save lives by giving blood right here in the community.

“It’s just part of who we are at KMHC,” said Valerie Diabo, the hospital’s executive director. “Doing a blood drive, it goes hand in hand with the work we do. We want to give back to the people that need blood in different circumstances.”

This edition of the blood drive will be held on March 3 at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Registration is highly encouraged to keep things running smoothly.

KMHC’s goal is to draw at least 75 donors, which would put this edition of the blood drive ahead of October’s iteration, when 72 people rolled up their sleeves.

“The blood drive is an important event for our community,” said community member Mouchie Goodleaf, who coordinates reservations of the Knights of Columbus Hall.

“It’s just to give back and help people in need. Who knows? Maybe one of our people may need blood,” he said.

Goodleaf had also volunteered to provide door prizes as a sponsor through his Mouchie Goodleaf Productions initiative, however KMHC subsequently learned that incentive prizes are not permitted for blood donations in Quebec and has since removed references from the event’s promotions.

“That being said, we very much appreciate the fact that Mouchie Goodleaf generously stepped up - as he always does for good causes!” the hospital said in a statement.

According to Hema Quebec spokesperson Marc-Antoine Turcotte, a single blood donation saves up to three lives.

“By donating blood, you’re directly contributing to the well-being of your community,” said Turcotte. “There’s a high chance that someone you know and love already had a blood transfusion or required some form of a blood product, even if you’re not aware of it. You might be the one who needs blood some day, and you’ll be glad that someone else donated for you.”

Hema Quebec is hoping to register at least 80 more people ahead of the upcoming Kahnawake blood donor clinic, he said.

“We’re very thankful for the commitment and generosity of the population and various institutions in the community throughout the years. They’re the reason we keep coming back, and that donor turnout is always so impressive,” he said.

In fact, last year, a friendly rivalry between staff at the KMHC, Kahnawà:ke Shakotiia’takehnhas Community Services (KSCS), and Onkwata’karitáhtshera accounted for nearly 30 donors, he noted - enough to save nearly 90 lives.

“This is a prime example of how a community can come together for the greater good, and it goes hand-in-hand with Hema Quebec values and mission,” he said. “We want to say niawenhkó:wa to everyone in Kahnawake who supports our cause by donating, and we invite you to talk about it with your friends and family.”

The full process takes about an hour, with only about 10 minutes of that being actually giving blood.

“If you are nervous but still want to make a difference and donate blood, please inform our staff upon arrival. We pride ourselves on offering a safe and relaxing environment for all donors and will do anything possible to accommodate you,” said Turcotte.

First-timers and those who don’t have their donor card will need valid photo ID, and donors are advised to drink at least half a litre of water and have a healthy meal before their appointment.

“If you’re considering giving blood for the first time, I encourage you very much,” Diabo said. “It’s a rewarding thing to give blood.”

Donors must be at least 18 years old, feel healthy the day of the donation, and meet certain other criteria. Complete eligibility requirements are available at hemaquebec.ca or by calling 1-800-847-2525.

The blood drive takes place at Knights of Columbus Hall on March 3 from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Those who wish to donate are asked to schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-343-7264 or online at hemaquebec.ca, although walk-ins will also be accepted.

[email protected]

Marcus Bankuti, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter