Every Monday, Cochrane Today will recognize a member of the community who has soared to new heights as a person or group who demonstrates the character of the mighty eagle.
This week, we are pleased to bring you Kaitlyn Paltzat.
Giving blood makes more of a difference than many may think. It is a constant need that can result in saving a life.
Paltzat, from Cochrane, was honoured at the Canadian Blood Services Lifeline event in Ottawa, Monday Sept. 23.
In her short life, Paltzat continues to give to those around her whether it be through volunteering, tutoring or fundraising.
She is no stranger to wearing many hats and now can sport the hat of a blood donor. She assisted Cochrane High School with two feats, one being Canada's top school for giving the most blood donations and two for placing second for the most new blood donors.
Now that Paltzat has graduated and is off to chase her dreams, her legacy will continue at Cochrane High with younger students eager to continue in her footsteps.
One of the main reasons Paltzat was inspired to support Canada's lifeline was because of her dad. He was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma when she was five and battled the disease for four and a half years. During that time he received many donations of blood, plasma and stem cell transplants.
Half of all Canadians are either aware of someone who requires blood or will need it themselves. It is individuals like Paltzat that are helping patients across hospitals in Canada. While it is said that one in two Canadians are able to donate blood, only one in 60 do.
While all blood types are needed, currently there is a particular demand for two blood types, B negative and O negative. If you are interested in donating or want to know if you are eligible to, visit blood.ca for more information.
If you know someone deserving of recognition, email Editor Cathi Arola at [email protected].
