September 1, 2023

With recent advancements in science, 3D printing and replication technology, you might be wondering why plasma can’t be simply whipped up in a lab. 

There is no duplicate for source plasma – making donation essential. It’s a completely unique, organic substance that scientists haven’t been able to recreate. In this blog, we’re breaking down why plasma can’t be manufactured in a lab, and how donating benefits you. Let’s dive in!

Why Can’t Plasma Be Manufactured in a Lab? 

To understand why plasma can’t be manufactured in a lab, we need to break down its unique properties that make it difficult to study – and so far, impossible to replicate (bear with us – it’s about to get scientific).

Blood, which plasma is a component of, is difficult to study. After blood is donated, it only stays fresh for a limited amount of time, and medical professionals haven’t been able to replicate it in the window of time that it is viable. Plus, blood is dependent on the individual: a person’s health impacts the quality and properties of their blood, making plasma tricky to recreate in one pure form.

3 Reasons Why you should Donate Plasma 

That’s why it’s so essential to donate plasma consistently, for the patients with chronic conditions, traumatic injuries and autoimmune disorders who rely on plasma transfusions as a critical component of their healthcare routine. Plus, it’s a great way to make some extra cash.

If you’re still on the fence, consider the following: 

1. Plasma is in high demand, without enough supply. 

Plasma is essential for treating patients with immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, physical trauma and rare disorders –  yet plasma donor numbers dropped by 31,000 over the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients who require plasma treatments like transfusions and plasma therapies rely on donors like you – but this is a two-way street. At Canadian Plasma Resources, we value your time and are proud of our donor compensation system. 

2. Get paid to give back to Canadians in need 

This brings us to our next point – we value your time and energy, and because of that we’ve established a compensation system that rewards consistent donation. To learn more about our compensation system, check out the compensation page on our website.

3. Take Advantage of some Me Time

When you donate plasma, you get to kick back in a comfy seat and catch up on your favourite shows or the book that you’re pouring through – and get paid for it, while giving back to others. So essentially, when you become a plasma donor, you become a triple threat.

Book your plasma donation appointment today and earn up to $750 in your first six weeks as a plasma donor!

August 1, 2023

Plasma is known as “liquid gold” in the medical community for its life-sustaining and immune system supporting properties. Plasma helps to maintain blood pressure and volume, supply key proteins for blood clotting and immunity, carry electrolytes like sodium and potassium to our muscles and to maintain a healthy pH balance in the body, which boosts cell function. 

Medical jargon aside – you might be wondering: what is plasma? 

What is plasma?

Plasma comprises 55% of our blood (the remaining 45% is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets). Plasma itself is made up of 92% water and 7% proteins, like albumin, gamma, anti-hemophilic factor, with the remaining 1% made up of mineral salts, sugars, fats, hormones and vitamins.

How is plasma collected? 

At Canadian Plasma Resources, we pride ourselves on a smooth collection process. The plasma collection process is known as plasmapheresis, in which plasma donors are connected to a machine that draws out blood, separates plasma and returns the blood to the body. During this process, donors are able to watch tv, read a book, kick back and relax. 

Your first donation visit will take 2.5 to 3 hours, whereas subsequent visits will only take 1.5 to 2 hours. There’s a screening prior to for your health and safety, and to ensure that the plasma you are able to donate is viable. Following the donation process, we recommend grabbing a snack, hydrating and taking 15 minutes to rest before leaving the centre. 

Plasma treatments

Once plasma is collected, it can be turned into medications and plasma protein therapies that can serve a variety of functions! (Again, this is a lot of medical jargon but we’re here to break it down – the bottom line is that plasma donors are superheroes and plasma is their spiderweb web shooters). 

Immunodeficiencies 

Plasma is used to treat 80 autoimmune conditions because of its immune-system supporting properties. It can be used to make Immunoglobulin replacement therapies for patients who don’t produce enough immune-boosting components on their own. 

Plasma can also be used to treat neurological conditions that are linked to autoimmune issues as well, such as conditions where the immune system attacks cell receptors in the brain.  

Temporary Immunodeficiencies 

Cancer treatment can cause temporary immune deficiencies, which can be treated with the immunoglobulins found in plasma. Organ transplant patients can also experience temporary immune deficiencies surrounding surgery, and plasma treatment can be supportive of healing and recovery. 

Trauma, burn and shock patients 

Plasma can be used to treat trauma victims because of its clotting properties. It contains antibodies, clotting factors and various proteins that can help trauma patients to not bleed excessively and ward off infection. 

One study found that, within a 30 day window, 76.8% of patients who received plasma survived, compared to 67% of patients who did not receive plasma and only received standard care. 

Patients with clotting conditions & bleeding disorders 

Lastly, plasma can be used to treat patients with clotting & bleeding disorders because of its coagulating properties. Plasma helps blood to clot, reducing the risk of excessive bleeding. It also helps to manage blood pressure and volume, because of the plasma protein albumin.  

Plasma can be used to treat: 

• Hemophilia A, a genetic disorder that is caused by a lack of blood clotting factor VIII. 
• Hemophilia B, a hereditary disorder that is caused by a lack of blood clotting factor IX. 
• Von Willebrand disease, the most common genetic blood clotting disorder.

Donate today!

Plasma is truly a liquid gold miracle component of blood that supports the health and wellbeing of patients with different conditions. Become a superhero and donate plasma today (and earn some extra cash – up to $750 in your first 6 weeks with bonus opportunities!) 

August 1, 2023

Plasma proteins are like superheroes that work best together. 

There are three key types of plasma proteins: Albumins, Immunoglobulins and Fibrinogens. In this blog, we’re breaking down how each plasma protein functions as a component of plasma to fight crime (infection) and help the body maintain its immune system and heal.

What are Albumins? 

Albumins are like the multivitamin of the group – they’re general, well-rounded proteins that are supportive of your body’s overall functioning. They help balance the right amount of water and nutrients in our blood, making sure everything stays in harmony. Additionally, they transport important substances like vitamins and hormones to key parts of the body. 

What are Immunoglobulins?

Immunoglobulins guard the gates to our immune system! They’re antibodies that protect us from harmful invaders, like bacteria and viruses. When bacteria and viruses enter our system, immunoglobulins fight to protect our wellbeing. They make up 35% of plasma proteins. Immunoglobulins are a subset of globulins, which are just a group of proteins in the blood. Some globulins also work as enzymes, meaning that they help with digestion and metabolism. 

What is Fibrinogen?

Fibrinogen makes up 7% of plasma proteins. One of the essential bodily functions that Fibrinogen supports is blood clotting and coagulation. Fibrinogen converts to insoluble fibre, which helps that blood to clot. When you get injured and blood vessels are damaged, fibrinogen converts into fibrin, a fibrous protein that forms a mesh-like structure. This mesh traps blood cells and platelets, creating a blood clot that helps to stop bleeding. Blood coagulation is crucial for wound healing and preventing excessive blood loss.

Stronger Together: Plasma Protein Superheroes

Overall, plasma proteins help to maintain a variety of bodily functions. The protection that plasma proteins provide our immune system is what makes them essential for patients who require plasma protein therapies as life-sustaining treatments. 

Immunoglobulins support our wellbeing by fighting against viruses and bacteria. Albumins help to regulate blood volume and pressure, by making sure that there’s a proper level of fluids between blood vessels and tissues. This component makes plasma proteins essential for the treatment of trauma victims, because it helps to restore their blood volume and improve recovery. Finally, Fibrinogen is the part of plasma proteins that helps patients with clotting disorders or patients who are having major surgeries. Fibrinogen helps to reduce the risk of dangerous haemorrhages. 
Plasma proteins are amazing, life-sustaining elements of our immune system that keep our bodies healthy. To help patients access the plasma protein therapies and treatments that they need, donate plasma at a Canadian Plasma Resources centre today.

July 1, 2023

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Plasma is the fluid portion of blood, that contains red and white blood cells as well as platelets, forming the entirety of whole blood. 

Plasma has many different roles within your body. Here are some of the main roles plasma is responsible for: 

Rearranging water where your body needs it.

Plasma is composed of approximately 92 percent water, serving the crucial function of filling blood vessels. This enables the continuous circulation of blood and the transportation of essential nutrients within the heart.

Plasma facilitates the transportation of hormones, nutrients, and proteins to various body parts while aiding in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Plasma’s primary function is to transport essential nutrients, hormones, and proteins to the specific areas of the body requiring them and facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Additionally, cells deposit their waste substances into the plasma, which aids in eliminating this waste from the body.

Acting as a fluid medium, it delivers essential substances to where they are needed and helps maintain optimal organ and tissue functioning. 

In addition, plasma supports gas exchange by carrying oxygen to tissues for energy production and eliminating carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism. This balanced gas exchange ensures a healthy internal environment. Overall, plasma’s multifaceted nature as a transporter, gas exchanger, and waste remover highlights its crucial role in maintaining bodily functions and promoting well-being.

Plasma plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure and ensuring proper circulation.

The presence of albumin, a protein found in plasma, plays a crucial role in upholding the oncotic pressure, which prevents the leakage of fluid into areas of the body and skin where fluid accumulation is typically minimal. This mechanism safeguards against unwanted fluid retention and helps maintain a balanced distribution of fluids throughout the body. Additionally, by preserving the appropriate oncotic pressure, albumin contributes to the smooth flow of blood through the intricate network of blood vessels, ensuring efficient circulation.

Plasma aids in the clotting of blood.

Finally, plasma aids in the clotting of blood. Just as we mention on our website, on ‘How Plasma is used to Treat Bleeding Disorders’ plasma contains crucial proteins that contribute to preventing excessive bleeding by assisting in the clotting process, also known as coagulation. This becomes possible through the presence of specific proteins that work together to promote clot formation. 

Individuals with hemophilia A or B, characterized by impaired blood clotting, face life-threatening risks from seemingly minor cuts and scrapes. In such cases, coagulation therapy derived from donated plasma becomes essential for their survival. This therapy provides the missing clotting factors necessary for effective clot formation and can prevent severe bleeding episodes. Through the generous donation of plasma, individuals with hemophilia can receive the critical treatment needed to manage their condition and mitigate potential life-threatening situations.

Thank you for donating.

Thank you so much for taking the time to learn more about Blood Plasma, and its functions and for becoming a more informed part of the Give Plasma community. We appreciate all you do as donors and supporters. Visit our website today to find the centre nearest you to book your plasma donation.

July 1, 2023

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We know that when it comes to donating plasma, there can be a lot of factors that can affect your eligibility. Today, we hope to inform you more about the background of tattoos, their risks, and why there is a waiting period after getting your new tattoo.

What are tattoos really?

A tattoo is an imprint or artistic pattern created on the skin by inserting pigments through pricks into the uppermost layer of the skin. Traditionally, a tattoo artist uses a handheld device resembling a sewing machine, which features one or more needles that repeatedly pierce the skin. During each puncture, little ink droplets are deposited into the skin, resulting in the desired design or mark that lasts permanently.

What makes tattoos permanent? 

When a tattoo needle punctures the skin, it creates a break in the epidermis, the outer layer of skin, and deposits ink into the dermis, the inner layer that contains numerous blood vessels and nerves. This process triggers the immune system, which responds by sending immune cells, including macrophages, to the tattoo site. Macrophages play a role in cleaning up the area by engulfing the ink particles to keep the site as clean as possible. However, some ink particles evade macrophage capture and are absorbed by fibroblasts, specialized skin cells responsible for maintaining the skin’s structure. These fibroblasts and macrophages then become permanently trapped in the dermis, leading to the long-lasting presence of the tattoo.

Risks involved

There are many risks associated with getting a tattoo done. And when donating plasma, because it goes to people who are already immunocompromised, there need to be strict rules on who can and can’t donate. Because tattoos breach the skin, they can cause skin infections and other complications that in turn can hinder your eligibility to donate plasma. 

Mayo Clinic states that allergic reactions, bloodborne diseases, and other skin problems can arise after a tattoo. Since tattoos are done with dyes, this can trigger an allergic reaction such as rashes, which can even show years later. Bloodborne diseases like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), hepatitis B and hepatitis C can also occur if the equipment used to create your tattoo was contaminated with infected blood. Lastly, areas of inflammation called granulomas can form around your tattoo which can lead to keloids – areas of skin with raised overgrowth scar tissue. 

Waiting period

Because of these potential risks involved with getting a tattoo, there is a waiting period that donors have to go through in order to be able to donate again. At the Canadian Plasma Resources Centres, we ask that our donors wait 6 months after getting their tattoos before they are eligible to donate with us. After the 6 month period is over, we are more than excited to have you back in our centres to continue/or start your donation journey.

Thank you for donating.

Thank you so much for taking the time to learn more about donating with tattoos, and becoming a more informed part of the Give Plasma community. We appreciate all you do as donors and supporters. Visit our website today to find the centre nearest you to book your plasma donation.

June 27, 2023

Plasma donation has significantly helped recipients with underlying disease that impact their lives daily. Despite the fact that the pandemic assisted in increasing awareness about plasma; social isolation, cleaning practices, and a decrease in donors visiting centers have all had a negative impact on donations around Canada. 

      Covid 19 has been termed as the fifth pandemic to plague the world. Initially, the first case of the novel Coronavirus was identified in Canada and was reported on January 25, 2019 in a 50-year-old Toronto resident who had recently visited Wuhan, the initial epicenter of the outbreak in China. At Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto, the man was isolated. The initial progression led to a wide spread of the virus around the world. Individuals, families and communities were all left in fear and worry about the virus until a vaccine was produced to allay and reduce their fears. The world was put into isolation in order to reduce the spread of the virus. There were fewer interactions of people around the communities due to the various restrictions. 

      Canadian Plasma Resources took action in ensuring the safety of its donors such as social distancing, hand washing and the use of a face mask. This enabled us to continue to serve our plasma recipients who depended on plasma for survival.  The Canadian plasma resource also practices physical distancing while at our centers. Hand sanitizer use is required upon arrival. Additionally, to reduce traffic in our centers, we encourage donors to enter the building not more than 5 minutes before their appointment. 

      These plasma donation recipients include people fighting diseases such as cancer, auto immune diseases, clotting disorders, bleeding disorders and infections. These are everyday people like you and me who depend on your plasma donation to maintain the quality of their lives and to live fulfilling lives. With the introduction of the 5th booster vaccine, we have seen a significant increase in the number of donors coming into our facility in order to donate plasma. 

      The eligibility process still remains the same, however we have included more safety measures to ensure your safety while you donate. Also, according to CBC, the incidence of Coronavirus has reduced drastically as compared to when it first emerged. Hence, it is safer to donate. We appreciate your donations each day and are thankful for your contributions in making the world a better place of our various plasma recipients.

June 1, 2023

Why donate in the summer? 

You may have heard about the importance of blood donation – but have you heard about why plasma donation is so important?

It takes 1,200 plasma donations to treat one patient with hemophilia for one year. That’s why it’s so important to donate plasma consistently, because patients in need require regular plasma treatments as a part of their healthcare management. 

Donating plasma in the summer is a win-win situation. Like chocolate and peanut butter or Rachel and Monica, it’s one of those pairings that makes each other better. Donating plasma is not only good for others in need, it can also earn you some extra cash. Plus, donating in the summer is a lovely, comfortable experience (it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of the warmer weather) – but more on that below.

1. Getting to your appointment is a breeze

In the summer months, getting to your appointment can be a part of your day that you look forward to, rather than a chore. With the weather warming up and the sun shining bright, you can bike to one of our donation centres and enjoy some fresh air prior to your appointment, or you can drive with the windows down, playing your favourite sunny day music (think Red Hot Chili Peppers or Carrie Underwood) and soaking in the summer air. 

2. You can rest and recover in the sunshine

Following your plasma donation appointment, it’s important that you take the time to rest and recover. Usually, we recommend waiting for 15 minutes in our reception area, so you can sip some water and have a snack. With the season changing, you can enjoy some fresh air outside following your appointment while you stretch your legs and ensure that you’re feeling good enough to get on with your day.

3. You can earn some extra cash for your summer adventures 

Summer is the season of patio drinks, sports games and spontaneous adventures with friends. Having a friend grab your beer or spot you the cost of a ticket is always a nice gesture, but those favours can add up over the season.   

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance way to earn enough cash to cover the cost of summer-living, become a plasma donor today. 

Become a donor today

There’s no time to donate plasma like the present. Why not start regularly donating plasma this summer so you can foster a hobby that will carry you through the rest of the year? When you donate plasma, you help those with autoimmune conditions, bleeding disorders and other chronic conditions live healthy, sustained lives. To become a plasma donor today, visit our website and book your appointment. Thank you for taking the time out of your day to learn about why plasma donation is important and to take steps towards becoming a donor! 

June 1, 2023

Plasmapheresis is a treatment process that separates plasma from blood cells. 

While plasma exchange is similar, there are a couple of key differences. Plasma exchange not only separates plasma from blood, it also removes harmful antibodies from the bloodstream. Usually, this plasma is discarded and substituted with a replacement fluid. Whereas with plasmapheresis, the plasma is manipulated once it’s separated and it’s returned to the body. We’re breaking down all of the specific of these key differences below – so if you aren’t a doctor or a scientist, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. 

What is plasmapheresis?

Plasmapheresis is the plasma donation process that we use here at our centres. The plasmapheresis process involves being connected to a plasmapheresis machine in order to have your plasma separated and extracted from whole blood. Here’s how the process works here at CPR: 

Step 1. The plasmapheresis machine

Donors are connected to a plasmapheresis machine. The plasmapheresis machine withdraws all of the components of blood, separating plasma from the other blood cells before returning those other components back to the body.

Step 2. The donated plasma is frozen 

After you donate plasma, it has to be frozen within 24 hours in order for it to be viable. From there, it will be able to be supplied to patients in need!

Step 3. Patients in need receive plasma treatments. 

Donated plasma can be used in a variety of different treatments, from treating patients with chronic illnesses to trauma victims. 

When it comes to treating the latter, Plasma is used to heal tissue with platalet-rich plasma therapy, otherwise known as PRP therapy. This is the most common treatment method for healing tissue with plasma due to injuries from everyday accidents.

What is plasma exchange? 

While plasmapheresis separates the components of blood and plasma intravenously, plasma exchange involves completely removing the plasma and swapping it in with replacement fluid. This, like plasmapheresis, is a process of apheresis. Apheresis simply describes the process of filtering out the plasma from whole blood: and the key difference between these two processes is what is done with the plasma once it’s separated (ie, it’s filtered or extracted entirely).

Thank you for donating 

Thank you for taking the time to learn about the differences between plasmapheresis and plasma exchange. We value your time as a donor and appreciate your willingness to be an informed member of the Give Plasma community! To book your plasma donation appointment today, visit our website.

May 1, 2023

Meet Jester Onin Magaling! Jester is the Centre Administrator at our Calgary centre. Centre administrators are responsible for overseeing the day to day operations at our centres, from managing donor relationships to ensuring that our staff have everything that they need to succeed.

Pre-work prep

One thing that we at CPR have in common with Jester is that we believe in the importance of a balanced breakfast before coming to our centre.

Prior to donating plasma, it’s important that you keep your key nutrient levels up to ensure a smooth donation process and recovery. Aim to eat a healthy meal that’s rich in iron and protein to pass the health screening required to donate plasma!

Foods that are rich in iron include:

• Grains: Oats, quinoa, spelt, whole wheat products, and iron-fortified products.
• Fruit: Figs, dates, raisins, watermelon, and strawberries.
• Vegetables: Broccoli, string beans, cabbage, potatoes, and dark leafy greens. 

Foods that are rich in protein include:

• Nuts and seeds.
• Fish and shellfish.
• Lean meats and poultry.
• Beans, peas, and lentils.

Jester describes breakfast as their “main preparation for the day,” and we couldn’t agree more. 

“I do not go to work without eating breakfast,” Jester said. We love to hear it!

A typical work day

“My favourite part of being the Center Administrator is being able to support the department that needs some help,” Jester said. 

When things get stressful at the centre, Jester enjoys talking with other staff members to unwind, or play a quick cellphone game.

You can also unwind at our centre as a plasma donor. When you donate plasma, you have an hour of me-time during the plasmapheresis process to relax and unwind. Whether, like Jester, you want to play a game on your phone, read a book, catch up on your favourite TV show or phone a friend, it’s an hour of time that you’re earning extra cash without having to work – and when else can you say that!

The post-work wind down

Jester was promoted from Donation Hall Supervisor to Centre Administrator. Because of this promotion, once the Centre Administrator work is finished, Jester goes to the donation hall “to support staff wherever needed.” 

One of the ways that you can support your post-plasma donation recovery is by grabbing a snack and a bottle of water from reception. Winding down with a nutrient-rich bite to eat and proper hydration is key after your appointment!

Visit a CPR centre today

“Working in CPR is very fun especially with the diversity of the staff that we have,” Jester said. 

“We learn a lot with each other. Some staff have some problems of their own and when they work at CPR, they tend to forget their problems. I think all of the staff here know that I am always behind their back supporting them all the time and that is very special to me.”

Thank you to Jester for sharing the kind words and their experience as a Centre Administrator here at CPR! Book your appointment today and help patients in need receive the treatments that they require. And make sure to thank the staff members who you interact with – connecting with each other is one of the perks of being a donor, as well. 

May 1, 2023

What is plasma?

Plasma is the liquid portion of blood. It’s 91-92% water, and the rest of it is comprised of salts and proteins. Plasma is a straw-coloured liquid, colloquially referred to as “liquid gold.” 

Some of the proteins included in plasma are: 

• Immunoglobulins
• Alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor 
• Clotting factors
• C1 esterase inhibitor

These proteins are the backbone of plasma’s immune-boosting powers.

How plasma is used to treat autoimmune conditions via plasmapheresis

Plasma is known as a “second-line therapy” treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS), after the use of steroids. It can also be used as an alternative for patients who are unable to tolerate steroid injections.

Plasma exchange, known as plasmapheresis, can be used to treat MS (also known as TPE in the context of MS treatment) by “cleaning” the plasma portion of whole blood. Plasmapheresis, to treat MS, is the process of removing plasma from whole blood, cleaning it, and returning it and the blood back into the body. From one arm, blood is removed, then the plasma is separated and returned to the patient in the other arm. The plasmapheresis process takes approximately one hour, and MS patients who require this treatment need it every day for 5-7 days. 

The “cleaning” portion of plasmapheresis is meant to remove inflammatory factors and antibodies from the plasma, helping to reduce overall inflammation and its symptoms in MS patients. These inflammatory factors and antibodies can cause relapses, which is why clearing them out can be beneficial for MS patients.

How plasma is used to treat MS

Plasma therapies can be used to alleviate symptoms of MS for patients with Relapsing remitting MS (RRMS). 

There are three main types of MS: 

• RRMS. RRMS stands for Relapsing Remitting MS, which means that the patient’s case can go into remission for an extended period of time. RRMS is the only type of MS that plasma treatment can effectively aid. 
• Secondary Progressive MS. This type of MS is the bridge between RRMS and Primary progressive, with symptoms worsening and little to no remissions/relapses. 
• Primary Progressive MS. Primary Progressive MS means that the condition worsens to disability from the onset of symptoms without any remissions. 

During a relapse, patients with RRMS can use plasma treatments and therapies to mitigate their symptoms. Some of the symptoms of an MS attack include: 

• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Problems with balance and coordination
• Trouble with your vision
• Issues with your bladder
• Numb or tingling feelings (pins and needles)
• Problems with your memory
• Trouble concentrating

Plasma can be used to help ease the symptoms of these sudden attacks or flare ups. The plasma of MS patients could attack their own bodies, which is why plasmapheresis can be helpful during these flare ups.

The importance of donating plasma

Plasma donation is essential so that patients with autoimmune conditions can obtain the treatments and therapies that they need to live healthy lives. Book your next plasma donation appointment today to earn some extra income and make a difference in someone else’s life – you may not know the positive impact that you could have, but it could make all the difference in the world for someone who needs a plasma transfusion.