Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to recognize the accomplishment of Aurèle Thériault from Shippagan.
On March 13, Mr. Thériault made his 117th blood donation. He began giving blood when he was 20 years old. He is now 71 and hopes to continue giving blood in order to reach his goal of 120 donations.
Every minute of every day, someone in Canada needs blood. According to a recent poll, 52% of Canadians say that they or someone they know have needed blood or blood products.
I encourage people to follow the example set by Mr. Thériault, who has undoubtedly saved many lives because one single blood donation can save up to three lives on average.
Congratulations, Mr. Thériault, on your generous gift of life. I hope that you will reach your goal of 120 donations, and that your example will make people aware of the importance of donating blood.