The Editor,
Re. "Thanks for blood - but the need is constant" (Letters, The Tri-City News, Dec. 3).
Mark Donnison of Canadian Blood Services wrote to thank residents of the Tri-Cities for an enthusiastic response to the CBS's urgent appeal for blood donations.
Over 60 years ago, as a newborn baby, I needed surgery that required a blood transfusion. In those days, the patient either paid for blood or solicited "free" blood from family and friends. My father donated the blood I needed.
This family story may explain why I started donating blood 40 years ago. Recently, I gave my 297th blood donation at the mobile clinic in Coquitlam.
On alternating weeks, a mobile clinic comes to the Tri-Cities at a Coquitlam location. The mobile clinic operates from 1:30 to 8 p.m. and the procedure takes about 60 minutes.
I can attest that the blood donation process is easy, not uncomfortable and speedy.
I look forward to meeting you at the mobile clinic soon to give "the gift of life."
Derek Wilson, Port Moody
