Some members of the Comox Valley Kickers RFC supporting the club’s first blood drive.
The Comox Valley Kickers RFC has taken a significant step in supporting the most vulnerable members of the community by enrolling in the Canadian Blood Services’ Partners for Life program. On Wednesday, November 1, thirteen members, representing about a quarter of the club’s total, gathered at the Florence Filberg Centre to participate in a blood donation drive, a heartfelt effort to raise awareness and assist those in need.
Derek McCubbin, a longstanding member of the Comox Valley Kickers RFC, championed this initiative.
“As the community supports our rugby club, we wanted to find ways we can give back to the community,” says McCubbin. “Organizing a blood drive amongst our members made sense. The need for blood is constant and can be lifesaving.”
The blood drive served as a testament to the team’s collective dedication to making a tangible impact outside the rugby field. With some members reaching significant milestones, having donated for the 30th or 40th time, the event also welcomed four first-time donors within the group, setting an inspiring example for others to follow suit.
Natalie Nguyen, Co-Captain of the Comox Valley Kickers Women’s team, expressed, “Being part of a team is not just about what happens on the field; it’s about the values we uphold as part of the community. We are happy to support Canadian Blood Services and play our part in helping those in need.”
This event not only served to bolster the local blood bank but also shed light on the pressing need for regular blood donations, especially in times of emergencies or shortages. Canadian Blood Services relies on the support of communities to ensure a steady supply of blood for those undergoing medical treatments, surgeries, and emergencies. To learn more about Canadian Blood Services, please visit https://www.blood.ca/.
As the Comox Valley Kickers RFC looks forward to their next match, they carry with them the satisfaction of having made a difference beyond the field—a victory for the entire community.
To learn more about the Comox Valley Kickers RFC, please visit https://comoxvalleyrugby.ca/.
(L-R) Hazel Bice and Jenn Lund were two first time donors.