John and Drenise Cowlard
Volunteer
South Central Ontario
John and Drenise are a husband-and-wife volunteer team who have given more than 1,000 hours of time to the blood system since 1998. They first began as clinic volunteers in Simcoe; and recently leaped at the chance to take on leadership roles in Delhi, despite it not being in their own community.
From helping at the clinic to managing appointment reminder signage, the pair has filled many roles. Drenise has become an ABO typer, while John supports similar events as a community volunteer. They also help encourage local businesses to get their workplaces involved in blood donation. The Cowlards’ positive approach and infectious enthusiasm has resulted in very well-run and successful clinics.
John and Drenise have tremendous passion for the work that Canadian Blood Services does, fuelled in part by Drenise being a two-time cancer survivor. Energetic and outgoing, they are also involved in related causes, including the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
