Kathy Ribeiro, principal of Northlea Public School on Rumsey Road, has issued an appeal on behalf of the school’s blood donor clinic committee. The Northlea Community’s 19th Blood Donor Clinic will be held at Northlea School (North Gym) 305 Rumsey Road on Wednesday, April 11, 2012 from 2:00-8:00 pm. Ms Ribeiro recounts some compelling history of the clinic’s essential work. This is the sense of her note: In November of 2002, two Leaside area students were diagnosed with leukemia in the same week. They required blood transfusions to save their lives and help them fight the disease. The Leaside community began running blood donor clinics twice a year to support them in their battle. In the 9 years that followed, Leaside has continued to support Emmy, Noah, Cathy, Paul, Diane and other families during times of need, by donating over 2185 units of blood, saving over 6555 lives. Emmy’s leukemia is back for the 4th time. Cathy’s has returned as well. Both women are receiving treatment, in which blood and blood products play a huge part. They and their families would appreciate you showing your continued support by donating at the 19th Northlea Community Blood Donor Clinic. Donors may RSVP. by calling the Canadian Blood Services appointment number at 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283) Criteria for donating, as well as online booking can be found at www.bloodservices.ca Refreshments are available. Students over 17 years of age must have ID and can receive volunteer hours for showing up to donate as well.