ANN ARBOR (Oct.15, 2024) – 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 takes on added significance as thousands of blood donations went uncollected in the Southeast due to blood drive cancellations after Hurricane Helene. Hurricane Milton has the potential to further intensify shortages in the blood supply.
“We are encouraging blood donors outside of the affected areas to make an appointment to donate. Donations are critically needed to help those in need,” said Mary Lynn Foster, regional chief executive officer for the Red Cross in Michigan.
“It’s blood drives like the Blood Battle that will help ensure lifesaving blood remains available for patients affected by these awful disasters and those in the local community as well as patients in Michigan.”
This year marks the 42nd year the two universities have vied to collect the most pints of blood during a series of blood drives.
The Blood Battle begins Oct. 18 and runs through Nov. 27, 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. 17. 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.
“The Blood Battle against Ohio State is a great way for students and faculty to show their support for the Wolverines, while also directly improving the blood supply during a time of recurrent shortages,” said Christopher Sonnenday, M.D., who serves as the director of the U-M Transplant Center.
“Access to life-saving blood products is crucial to the work we do at Michigan Medicine. We are grateful to The American Red Cross for helping us continue this event for the 42nd year and all who participate in and support the Blood Battle.”
All presenting donors who give at Blood Battle drives will receive a commemorative T-shirt, coupons to local businesses and more. They will also be entered into raffles to win other exciting 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: Alicia Dorr / alicia.dorr@redcross.org / 616.306.8040
About the American Red Cross
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.
