Dec. 18, 2012

Burlington Central High School Grade 12 student Chelsea Rainey understands the importance of blood donation.

When she was 10 years old, her father received a kidney from a family member, and had been on dialysis prior to the transplant. For the family, it was a life-altering experience she has not forgotten. The 17-year-old first-time blood donor is rallying staff, students and the BCHS community to spread awareness about the need for blood and organ donors, and Canadian Blood Services’ holiday Miracle campaign.

“I fully appreciate how much a life-changing experience it can be to get blood from someone,” she said. “I don’t think enough young teens are aware how much blood is actually needed so I am hoping to get people to be lifelong donors.”

Until January 2, 2013, Canadian Blood Services is asking Canadians to give someone a holiday miracle – the gift of blood. Over 98,000 units of blood are needed for hospital patients. Rainey hopes students at Burlington Central High School can help meet that goal by giving 100 units of blood before December 24, 2012.

Grade 12 student Heather Schottlander supported her friend and was proud to give blood.

“I’ve known a lot of people in my family with blood issues so it feels good to donate,” she said.

“The fact that the entire initiative is completely student driven speaks to the kind of student leadership we have at BCHS,” says teacher Claire Ailey. “The experience increases our students' knowledge of the greater community and helps us to build knowledgeable citizens who understand the importance of giving back. Burlington Central High School staff and students are thrilled to be a part of the Miracle campaign.”

Canadian Blood Services is a national, not-for-profit charitable organization that manages the supply of blood and blood products in all provinces and territories outside of Quebec.

To book an appointment, call 1 888 2 DONATE (1 888 236 6283) or visit www.blood.ca.