Many cancer survivors can now donate blood in Canada

Changes have been made to blood donor eligibility criteria in Canada, especially when it comes to cancer survivors.

According to Brett Lawrence of Canadian Blood Services, there is still a lifetime deferral for those recovering from leukemia or lymphoma.

However, for most other cancers, people can donate once they are cancer-free and one year after treatment.

“It was within the last two years that this change came into effect,” Lawrence said.

“It just came from researchers at Canadian Blood Services, and there was also new research coming out showing that post-cancer survivors can now donate blood.”

Cancer survivor Melody Zeller, who has received blood transfusions, is pleased with the updated eligibility.

“Everyone should get out there and see if they can donate again, and do it as soon as possible,” she said.

Watch the video above to learn more and hear Zeller’s story.

– With files from CTV’s Maralee Caruso.