Giving is in his blood: Laurier employee to make 50th donation Aug. 8

Aug. 2, 2023

Wilfrid Laurier University employee Dan Polischuk (BA '10) knows that blood donations save lives.  

Moved by a news story about a motor-vehicle accident, Polischuk — a communications coordinator in Laurier’s Athletics and Recreation department — began to donate blood. Polischuk continues to give as a member of Laurier’s Partners for Life team, and will be making his 50th donation on Aug. 8.  Laurier has pledged 475 donations to Canadian Blood Services in 2023. 

Below, Polischuk discusses his reasons for giving blood. 

How did your blood donation journey start?

I had read a newspaper article about a serious car accident and the injured passengers relied on family members for a significant amount of blood. I wasn’t connected to the family in the story, but their experience made an impact on me. It hit home for me that anyone at any time could need blood. I was also familiar with Canadian Blood Services’ tagline — “It’s in you to give” — and felt extra inspired to take that initial step to donate. I’ve kept going from there.  

Why is giving blood important to you? 

For me, the impact of giving blood is life altering for those who need donations, and it only takes minutes to do. I feel it’s a truly valuable way to support the community.  

You’re set to make your 50th donation. How does that make you feel?  

I don't often think about milestone donations, but I do feel proud of this one. I know my donations have made an impact. I try to focus on who my donations have helped.

What’s your favourite post-donation snack?  

I double up on the mini chocolate chip cookies and I'll slide in some Oreos, too. Sometimes I opt for a salty snack, like chips or pretzels, but I have a sweet tooth, so cookies are my go-to option.   

What would you say to someone considering a donation this summer? 

Time is so precious these days, but the time it takes to give blood — about 45 minutes — makes such an impact. In your entire day, giving blood is one of the best ways to make a positive impact out of anything else you could be doing. Even if you can’t give blood or plasma, you can be an advocate for blood donations. Encourage friends and family members to donate. Blood and blood products are such an important resource and it's something we all have within us.  

If you give at Canadian Blood Services’ Waterloo clinic, the staff are so friendly and welcoming. They are so grateful the moment you walk through the door. I credit them for making the process so easy and enjoyable. They really make you feel special. 

Donate at a clinic near you 

Members of Laurier’s Partners for Life team can book online to donate at any Canadian Blood Services location or mobile clinic.    

In Waterloo, the Canadian Blood Services clinic is located at 94 Bridgeport Rd. E., a short distance from Laurier’s Waterloo campus. Book an appointment online to give during the following times:   

• Monday to Wednesday from 2 to 7 p.m.    
• Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.  
• Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.  
• Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.  

In Brantford, Canadian Blood Services will hold mobile clinics on Aug. 26 and Sept. 5. Book online to reserve your appointment. Complimentary transportation can be arranged by emailing gina.leyva@blood.ca. 

Other ways to support Canadian Blood Services 

Not everyone can give blood. There are other ways to support Laurier’s partnership with Canadian Blood Services:    

• Raise awareness about the ongoing need for blood by sharing Canadian Blood Services’ content on your Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts.   
• Volunteer at your local Canadian Blood Services clinic location.  
• Join the stem cell registry if you are between the ages of 17 and 35.     

If you are unsure if you are eligible to donate, please visit the Canadian Blood Services eligibility page or call 1-888-2-DONATE to speak with a nurse.