ANN ARBOR (Oct.20, 2025) – The American Red Cross is teaming up with the University of Michigan for its annual Blood Battle against long-time rival Ohio State University. This friendly competition aims to bring in blood donations across both campuses and keep hospital shelves stocked with lifesaving blood products ahead of the holidays – one of the most challenging times to collect blood.   

“Having blood products readily available can mean the difference between a loved one receiving critical medical care or having to wait,” said Erin Burns, donor recruitment account manager for the Red Cross in Michigan. “Blood donors play a vital role in helping to save lives. 

This year marks the 43rd year the two universities have vied to collect the most pints of blood during a series of blood drives.   

The Blood Battle begins Oct. 22 and runs through Nov. 26, with the Red Cross hosting more than 45 blood drives around U-M and Ann Arbor. Donors can also schedule an appointment for the Be a Hero blood drive on Sunday, Nov. 16. This is the largest single-day blood drive on the U-M campus and donors have a chance to see the Big House from the Jack Roth Stadium Club. 

“Approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed daily in the U.S., and U-M Health needs 80-90 units daily to support transplants, trauma care, cancer treatments, and more,” said Chris Sonnenday, M.D., Transplant Center Director at U-M Health. “Every generous blood donation is crucial to savings lives.”  

All presenting donors who give at Blood Battle drives will receive a commemorative T-shirt, coupons to local businesses and more. They will also have a chance to win other giveaways. 

To sign up to donate blood, visit redcrossblood.org and type sponsor code “goblue” in the search box, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Appointments are preferred but walks-in are welcome. 

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MEDIA CONTACT: Sydney Henry / sydney.henry@redcross.org / 313-439-4304 

About the American Red Cross 
For more information, please visit The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.