It's a Blood Battle!

Sept. 5, 2008

By Gina Ehrhard

The University of Kentucky’s College of Health Sciences will partner with the Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) on Sept. 18, to host a blood drive as part of the university’s first medical college “Blood Battle.”

During the battle, all six of the university’s medical colleges will compete to donate the largest amount of blood. 

The College of Health Sciences will begin the battle at 8 a.m. on September 18 in the Wethington Building, room 127.  The blood drive will conclude at 2 p.m. that day.  Blood drives for the remaining five medical colleges will be held at a later date.

According to the KBC, “one pint of blood can help save the lives of up to three patients.” Based on that knowledge, the College of Health Sciences established a 50 pint goal for the drive.

More than 60 percent of Kentuckians are eligible to donate blood; however, only five percent become donors.  Contrast that with the fact that 90 percent of all Kentuckians will need blood or blood products in their lifetime, according to the KBC.

“Based on my personal experience with a blood transfusion, I feel personally connected to the mission of any blood drive,” said Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Sharon Stewart, Ed.D.  “Donating is important because one selfless act benefits many individuals.”

The College of Health Sciences blood drive is open to all participants who are 17 years old (16 year-olds may donate with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good general health.  Participants must also provide valid photo identification.

All donors will receive:

· A voucher that can be redeemed at the Kentucky Clinic Starbucks, the Big Blue Deli, or the UK Medical Center cafeteria.

· A chance to win the 2008 Toyota Camry being raffled off by KBC.

· A KBC T-shirt and snacks.

Additionally, donors will be entered to win a UK hat, a gift card to Columbia Steakhouse and other prizes provided by the College of Health Sciences.

To sign up, please contact Keturah Taylor-Washington at 323-1100 ext. 80479.  Participants may also sign up online here The sponsor code for this organization is 034-A10.