Wednesday is the perfect day to be negative – O negative

By Lethbridge Herald on August 8, 2025.

Sam Leishman
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Calling all O- blood donors! It’s your time to shine!

Canadian Blood Services (CBS) is hosting a special event at Lethbridge’s Exhibition & Trade Centre on Aug. 13 between noon and 4 p.m., specifically to collect O- whole blood.

According to CBS, any patient can receive O- blood regardless of their own blood type, so it’s often in high demand. It’s especially important in emergency situations when there is little time to check someone’s blood type.

“Only seven per cent of people in Canada have O- blood. That’s a very small percentage with a huge impact,” says Lisa Castro, Community Development Manager. “That’s why it’s so important that people with O- blood donate regularly, if they can.”

Castro says the national O- inventory currently has enough supply to last approximately five days. She stresses that it’s not as much as it seems since supplies can dwindle quickly, and it’s vital to keep that inventory as strong as possible.

At least 100 donors are needed to meet the goal of this event. Less than 50 per cent of available appointments have been booked so far.

“It’s about giving selflessly. It’s not like writing a cheque or donating clothing, it’s something different. You really have to experience it to know what it feels like,” Castro says.

“Know that the time that you spend donating translates to extended time for patients and for their loved ones to be with them. We want donors to come away feeling a sense of achievement, purpose and profound connection to others.”

If you know that your blood type is O-, you’re encouraged to book an appointment for this event by calling 1-888-2-DONATE, at blood.ca or on the GiveBlood app. CBS points out that your family members may be O- too, and to invite them to donate with you.

For those that can’t make it this time, Castro sayws more O- specific events are in the works for November and February.

Those with other blood types are also urged to donate plasma this summer at the donor centre at 3735 Mayor Magrath Drive.