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I respect the importance of strong quality control regarding Canada’s blood supply. But as a “recovered” #COVID19 case it pains me to hear the Cdn Blood Service ads promoting the “need” for plasma from recovered Covid patients, knowing that as a gay man I am barred from donating.
Canada’s deferral period preventing gay men from donating blood seems extra archaic, given that many other countries have retired such practices, and considering the unique need for plasma from otherwise healthy (under 67, with no underlying health conditions) COVID patients.
I was precleared to participate in a study regarding COVID plasma in Canada, but was disqualified when a secondary survey asked questions about my sexuality, due to the fact that @CanadasLifeline was the body responsible for collecting the plasma samples.
My experience with the virus was luckily very mild, but I hoped to find some comfort in knowing that my diagnosis and recovery could then be used to help with research, and perhaps the recovery of others. Our blood service’s policy has made that not possible.
Again, I understand the need for precaution, but it’s hard not to feel descriminated against. Something that, thankfully, as a gay person in Canada in 2020 I don’t feel very often. Thank you for listening to this personal rant. Now back to regular programming. 
