This article was originally published in the January 2023 edition of Héma-Québec’s Magazine.

Vincent, plasma donor

Vincent, plasma donor

With the introduction of the new gender-neutral questionnaire, Vincent Godbout can now donate blood and plasma. And as evidenced by the 11 plasma donations he made in three months, he is catching up on lost time.

On October 2, the date the new plasma questionnaire was first implemented, Vincent was one of the first members of the LGBTQ+ community directly impacted by this important change to make a donation and post it on social media.

“From the moment it became possible to donate, I really wanted to,” says the 34-year-old web marketing specialist. “We are no different from other donors. It’s great to finally have a chance to give.”

In summary, the new gender-neutral questionnaire allows for the assessment of risk factors related to each person’s sexual practices, without it being based on gender and sexual orientation. In other words, members of the LGBTQ+ communities can now donate blood and plasma, under certain conditions, to the delight of many, including Vincent.

In the past, he did not hesitate to publicly criticize the ban on several members of sexual diversity. “Maybe one day we’ll be able to save lives,” he said in a Facebook post in 2017.

“I’ve been pushing for it a little bit on my side, as have other members of the community. I think that’s how we’ve managed to change things. When I saw that things had changed, I decided to go for it as much as I could and give as often as possible.”
The motivation behind all his donations is also deeply rooted in the fight his mother, Lucie, has been waging against cancer for 20 years.

“She is now terminally ill,” he said. “It certainly influenced my decision to give. Although she has not needed blood products, this is my way of giving back to the health care system and helping those who could benefit from my donations.”

A gift to others but also to yourself

What is most striking about Vincent is his infectious enthusiasm and optimism.

“My mother gave me these great qualities,” he said, getting emotional. “Even though we know that the end is coming, she has fought all her life. Her positive outlook on life, I think, is what has allowed her to stay with us so long.”

He hopes that his commitment to the cause and his many online posts on plasma and blood donation will influence some people to finally roll up their sleeves.

“No one is immune to an accident or illness. Eventually, everyone could need blood products. Being healthy is a gift. Not having time, that’s an easy excuse. It's a gift to others, but also to yourself. When do you get the chance to take an hour to sit down and relax?”

Vincent would love to share his pleasure of giving the gift of life with his friends. It is only a matter of time before one of them accepts his invitation.

In the meantime, you can find Vincent at the GLOBULE Lebourgneuf every Friday, ready to make a plasma donation.