72-year-old Jean Bernier from Quebec is Canada’s top blood donor, having donated blood 1,700 times over the last 54 years.

Bernier has been recognized as North America’s most generous donor, as he donates blood purely out of kindness and not for compensation. Growing up in a large family of 10 children, his motivation comes from the values his parents taught him: to be generous and to never waste anything.

Bernier first donated blood in the summer of 1971 when he was just 18 years old. More than 50 years later, he never planned to break records but simply continued donating because it felt right to him.

Bernier says he hopes to continue donating blood for as long as possible, and he welcomes anyone to come and try to take his title. If you’re looking to donate blood, you can learn more through Canadian Blood Services.

Source: Rachel Lau, CTV News