Increasing the blood supply is a matter of life and death for thousands of patients in hospitals around the country.

And as has become the norm for Canadian Blood Services, they can always count on Estevan and area to help them restock during the quarterly blood donor clinic.

Estevan rolled up their sleeves on Tuesday to help reduce a nationwide blood shortage, where approximately 10,000 donations were needed Canada-wide last week.

"For everybody living in Saskatchewan, we know how rough this winter has been as it's been very cold," expressed Mike Fisher, Territory Manager in Saskatchewan for Canadian Blood Services.

"It's been tough for people to get out and donate, and we've seen a reflection of that in recent weeks with lower than expected donations."

READ MORE: Urgent Need To Stock National Blood Supply

While donations are streaming in, some locals commented on how the process has been made much easier to give. With the online application, taking away that awkward interrogation many are used to. The numbers of giving have increased. 

Jacqueline Lussier Donates For The 119th Time.

“I started donating when I turned 21, that’s 54 years ago," admitted donor Jacqueline Lussier with a smile during Tuesday's clinic. “Here with Canadian Blood Services it's 119 times after today.”

Lussier didn't hesitate when asked why she is so willing to donate.

“First off there is a need, secondly its something I’m able to do and it hasn’t made me sick, and thirdly I saw the example of my father who used to give. And when I turned 21 I was able to give and so I started. As often as I can, I do. It's one of those things I can do to help,” she explained.

Lussier is far from the only local donor who has given dozens if not hundreds of times, which is great for Canadian Blood Services who are always in need. Estevan has become one of the collection locations that the organization can rely on for donations, with this past Tuesday's clinic booked full a week in advance.

Victims of a bad car crash can need up to 50 units, while leukemia patients can require up to 80 units every week, the organization estimates.

The next blood donor clinic in Estevan will be held on June 19th at the Estevan Leisure Centre.