Are you ready to make a grooming experience that truly matters? From Feb. 11-13, 2023, Canadian Blood Services is setting up shop at Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga, not just to give you a (free) fresh cut, but to make a difference in the lives of those in need. With their three-day pop-up barber shop event, they’re on a mission to raise awareness and enlist new stem cell donors. Sign up here and keep reading for more info.
In Canada, nearly 1,000 patients are waiting for their stem cell match – a match that could save their lives. But the road to recovery isn’t always easy, as a lack of diversity in stem cell registries worldwide makes it difficult for patients to find a match. That’s why Canadian Blood Services is calling on young males between the ages of 17-35 to join the registry and make a difference. Young males are highly sought after as stem cell donors, as they tend to produce more stem cells and can improve recipient outcomes.
Step into the barber’s chair and make a cut that goes beyond your appearance. With each snip of the scissors, you’ll be taking a step closer to becoming a potential life-saver. The barber shop event will provide a relaxed and welcoming environment, where you can get a free haircut or beard trim, learn about stem cell donation, and even complete your registration on the spot.
For families like the Prajapatis, who are searching for a stem cell donor to help their twin toddlers recover from a rare genetic condition, this event is more than just a barber shop. It’s a chance to connect with the community and raise awareness for a cause that hits close to home. “The past two years have been a huge challenge for our family, trying to balance between letting the girls live normal lives and keeping them safe from harmful situations,” says Sanjay Prajapati. “We’re looking forward to connecting with the community during the pop-up event to enhance support for families like ours and help raise the needed awareness for more stem cell donors.”
The onset of the pandemic has affected registry numbers, but Canadian Blood Services is determined to make a difference through this unique and interactive approach. Get a trim, feel good, and make a life-saving gift – register as a stem cell donor at the Canadian Blood Services pop-up barber shop event at Square One Shopping Centre and become a part of something bigger than yourself.
When:
- Saturday, February 11: 12 pm-9 pm
- Sunday, February 12th: 11 am-7 pm
- Monday, February 13th: 10 am-9 pm
Where:
- Square One Shopping Centre, Mississauga (Center Court, across from the lower-level food court)