Brittany Hearn joined Lakehead Rotary this week as a guest speaker, bringing an informative and engaging presentation to the meeting. As Community Development Manager for Donor Relations and Collections with Canadian Blood Services, she spoke about the critical role plasma donation plays in producing life-saving medications, particularly immunoglobulins used to treat people with immune deficiencies.
She explained that plasma makes up about 55 percent of our blood and can be donated more frequently than whole blood, making it especially important as demand continues to grow. That demand is driven by an aging population and an increase in medical conditions that rely on plasma-based treatments. To illustrate the impact, Brittany shared the example of a child in Thunder Bay who requires up to 130 plasma donations each year to maintain a healthy, everyday life.
Brittany also walked Rotary members through what the plasma donation process looks like. First-time donors can expect a visit of about an hour and a half, which includes a health screening and eligibility check. She offered practical tips, such as staying well hydrated and consuming salt beforehand. In addition to donating, Brittany highlighted ways Rotary members and the broader community can get involved. She spoke about volunteer opportunities with Canada’s Lifeline, group participation through the Partners for Life program, and the new Give and Getaway campaign, which encourages donations during the winter months with added incentives. She also addressed appointment booking and eligibility, helping make the process feel accessible and straightforward.
With growing needs across the country, Brittany encouraged anyone interested to take the next step, donate if they are able, get involved in the community, and help Canadian Blood Services move closer to its goal of welcoming one million new donors by 2030.