Okotokians are stepping up and pitching in to help Canadian Blood Services.

A blood clinic tonight, and the next scheduled clinic in Okotoks on Dec. 27 have both been fully booked.

Lisa Castro, Territory Manager for Canadian Blood Services, says tonight's blood clinic at Holy Trinity Academy was organized in part by a young girl from Okotoks, Brienna Ball.

"She's a young girl who's actually going through CVID, so it's Common Variable Immunodeficiency. It's basically a lifelong condition where her body is unable to create enough antibodies to fight off infection. Even a common cold can be a life threatening thing for someone with CVID. Brienna actually receives blood transfusions every three days to give her IGG antibodies that are needed to fight off the millions of bacteria and viruses we face everyday."

Castro shares Canadian Blood services is thankful for Brienna, who's been working to raise awareness in the community for the organization.

"We're really grateful for that kind of support, it really highlights the importance of donating blood year round. Really the goal of this clinic is to help bring awareness to the community about how important these blood drives are in ensuring patients receive the blood products they require for ongoing treatment."

She adds while booking response has been great from the Okotoks community, she'd like to remind residents who signed up to honour their appointment.

Both clinics in Okotoks are full, however interested residents can travel a short distance to High River for a clinic on Dec. 16 with openings available.

That clinic takes place at the High River Baptist Church from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Currently there is an immediate need for O negative blood, as Canadian Blood Services currently has less than two days worth left in their inventory.

To book an appointment to donate blood click here.

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