Weber State invites all to donate during 23rd Blood Battle
OGDEN, Utah — The tradition continues as Weber State University hosts the 23rd annual American Red Cross Blood Battle on its Ogden campus Sept. 14–17.
The Blood Battle is a friendly competition between WSU and Utah State University to see which school can supply the most blood.
In the past 23 years, both schools have collected more than 20,000 units of blood to help those in need. For many, these generous contributions have made all the difference.
“These donations mean more to the individuals that receive them than most people realize," said Sam Wright, president of the WSU American Red Cross Club.
Wright has Von Willebrand disease, which is a bleeding disorder that makes it hard for blood to clot. He's received multiple blood transfusions as treatment.
"I don't know the donors that made it possible for me, but if I could, I'd go back and thank them a thousand times over," he said.
The Shepherd Union Ballroom will accept donations Sept. 14–16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sept. 17 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but donors are encouraged to make an appointment ahead of time to avoid waiting. Use the code BLEEDPURPLE on the American Red Cross website to schedule an appointment.
All students, staff, faculty, and community members are invited to help reach this year’s goal of 222 units. Blood donors will receive a commemorative T-shirt while supplies last.
This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the Center for Community Engaged Learning, which offers year-round opportunities for service, education, and civic engagement. The annual Blood Battle is one of the many ways CCEL invites Wildcats to get involved and make a positive impact.
“Though we’re trying to win against USU, ultimately, the people who are going to win in the end are those who are going to receive the blood units,” Wright said.
Donors who aren’t near the Ogden campus can still donate at a nearby blood drive or donation center through the Wildcats Save Lives Bloodlink. Donations completed Sept. 14–17 through the Bloodlink will count toward Weber State's total.
Elva Mora, Marketing & Communications
- Contact:
Rachel Badali, Public Relations Director
801-626-7948, rachelbadali@weber.edu