Mr. Speaker, I have always been a firm believer in the importance of blood donation. Not only is it of indisputable value medically, but it is also a symbol of human solidarity. Giving blood is neither dangerous or painful. It is a quick process and, for the recipient, can mean the difference between life and death, health and illness. In Canada, no money changes hands, which makes it all the more meaningful symbolically and medically.
That is why I was so pleased to be made the honourary patron of the Caisse Desjardins annual blood donor clinic in Thérèse-de-Blainville. I invite everyone in my riding to take part in this eighth annual clinic, which is made possible by the Caisse Desjardins, of course, along with the Bois-des-Filion-Lorraine chamber of commerce and the town of Bois-des-Filion.
I look forward to seeing everyone from Marc-Aurèle Fortin riding on December 6 at the Chalet des citoyens starting at 11 a.m. I will be there to meet and encourage those giving blood because blood is the gift of life.