For the second year in a row, the Perth East Fire Department has teamed up with Krista Shiell to help ensure lifesaving blood products are available to hospital patients in need.
In April 2006, Krista-Leigh (Glass) Shiell suffered severe internal injuries when an unoccupied vehicle rolled back and pinned her against a garage. She was rushed to Stratford General Hospital with a bruised and swollen liver. Her liver ripped while she was on the emergency room table and began hemorrhaging. She required an immediate 13 units of blood.
After doctors did what they could in Stratford, she was rushed to London Health Sciences Center with what medical experts at the time said was less than a five per cent chance of survival.
She remained in hospital for 26 days while multiple surgeries were performed. During the course of the stay she received a total of 48 units of blood.
"Without the blood, I would have died … I got everything back," said Shiell, who added that she's encouraging eligible blood donors to step forward and give the gift that saved her life.
The Perth East Fire Department is hoping that by bringing awareness to the need for blood in the community, more people will come out and donate. Last year’s clinic brought out 82 blood donors, and the hope is that this year’s clinic will bring out over 100.
A team of Perth East Firefighters will be donating together at the clinic on Tuesday, September 11 as a further dedication to their community. You can take part by making an appointment on Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Perth East Recreation Centre on Temperance Street in Milverton.
To discover all the ways you can help and to book your appointment, visit blood.ca.
