Canadian Blood Services in Moncton say they have seen a spike in donations over the past few weeks, and much of it is because of Rebecca Schofield.
The 17-year-old’s kindness campaign #BeccaToldMeTo has spread internationally. Thousands of good deeds later, she’s honouring a cause that has been close to her heart from the beginning.
“I know how it must affect the people who get these transfusions, and I know how much better they're going to feel and it's going to put a smile on their face to feel so much better,” said Becca said.
When she first penned her now-famous bucket list and call for good deeds, giving blood was high on the list. Over her past two years battling cancer, she's received several transfusions herself, inspiring her to continue the call for donations.
“When I need blood, i just feel so drained. I already tire easily, but I can feel when I need that boost, and I feel so miserable when I need blood,” said Becca.
Canadian Blood Services says demand for donors was rising after several snowstorms forced them to cancel blood drives. But they say Maritimers have stepped forward to answer the call.
“We've been having a lot of people come in the door, and we just believe (Becca’s) dream and her actions have really impacted the blood donor clinic,” said Jacqueline Alain of Canadian Blood Services.
Several Riverview High School students bussed to the clinic to make their contribution on Friday.
“I think it's amazing,” said student Hope Leger. “I really think it's blown up, and it should have, and I'm glad it did because it's just so selfless and beautiful and I love it.”
While Becca no longer needs transfusions herself, she says she's thinking of others she met at the IWK Health Centre who do, pressing her to carry on the message.
“Thank you from me, but also from the recipients. I hope you know how much of a difference you're making in doing this.”
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Cami Kepke.
