Blood donors at Vernon's Trinity United Church were greeted with free food, drinks and hockey tickets on Monday, Dec. 2.

The tickets were from the BCHL's Vernon Vipers, who were on hand to show their support for the community's act of giving. 

"We like doing events like this," said Luke Bibby, Vernon Vipers forward. "They support us so much, so it is only right that we can go out and do the same."

Gerry Poole, a volunteer usher with the team, was a key reason the club and Canadian Blood Services could partner.

"I know how valuable giving blood is," Poole said, recounting stories from his career as an RCMP officer, where blood donations were badly needed. "We thought surprising these donors with some free tickets would be a good idea."

While no Vipers went under the needle, mascot Sniper did think about it, although those at the church were skeptical about if the mascot had blood. 

Poole also has a personal connection with donating. In 2006, he discovered that he had an abnormal blood disorder called hemochromatosis.

"Basically, it is a condition in which your body stores too much iron," said Poole. "I feel really tired and lethargic throughout the day."

However, the cure to hemochromatosis is simple. Twice a month, Poole has to go in and drain his blood, so that the excess iron can be removed. The fact that he is removing unwanted iron cells, and then transferring them to be donated to someone in need was a win-win.

"I love that this is the cure to my condition," he said. "I come in as often as I can for it, and it is just a great thing to do."

According to Canadian Blood Services, Canadians 17 and older are eligible to donate blood every 56 days for males and every 84 days for females.

Trinity United Church (3300 Alexis Park Drive) hosts blood donor clinics monthly. There are appointments available today (Dec. 3) and Wednesday, Dec. 4 and again Dec. 30-Jan. 1. Book your appointment at .