City of Surrey employee marks a milestone
John Wilson finally reached 100 on March 28.
But the long-time City of Surrey employee hasn't felt better in his life.
On Wednesday, Wilson gave his 100th pint of blood at the Surrey clinic of Canadian Blood Services.
Always wanting to give back to his community, Wilson, 57, started donating blood more than 35 years ago. Born in Saskatchewan, he moved to Surrey with his family at the age of 10.
"My mother was a nurse and I always watched her donate her time, volunteering to help other people" said Wilson. "And so I realized early on that if you can do something to help someone else, why aren't you doing it?"
He began to donate blood consistently years ago when the mobile donation clinic would set up inside the council chambers at Surrey City Hall.
For many of the last 35 years Wilson has donated every 56 days, however, a few years ago the staff at the clinic noticed the iron levels in his blood were slightly lower than normal.
Having always been active and running frequently to stay in shape, it was suggested he wait an extra two weeks to make sure his irons levels remained high. So now he donates blood approximately every 70 days, depending on his schedule.
He plans to continue donating as long as he can. After age 71, anyone planning to donate blood needs a doctor's note allowing it.
As far as encouraging others to donate, Wilson likes to lead by example, something he learned long ago from his parents.
"If you can, donate, put your money where your mouth is, pass it forward."
The Surrey blood donor clinic is located at 6830 King George Blvd. To make an appointment to give blood, call 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283)
More information about donating blood and eligibility can be found at visit www.blood.ca
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