LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- University of Kentucky fans are encouraged to donate blood next week as part of an annual competition against Tennessee fans.
Kentucky Blood Center's annual Big Blue Crush goes from Nov. 17-21 in an effort to ensure a healthy blood supply for the Thanksgiving holiday. The 38th annual competition pits Kentucky Blood Center against MEDIC Regional Blood Center in Knoxville.
“A big turnout during Big Blue Crush is critically important for local hospitals and patients,” Mandy Brajuha, VP of external relations at KBC, said in a news release Friday. “Shortened hours, low donor turnout and the chance of an increase in transfusions during Thanksgiving week puts a significant strain on the blood supply. With the help of Kentucky fans, we can ensure blood is on the shelves for the start of the holiday season and remind our rivals the power of Big Blue Nation.”
Kentucky Blood Center has won the last three straight competitions, and the last 13 of 15. Kentucky leads the overall series against Tennessee 22-14-1.
KBC supplies blood for 70 hospitals in Kentuckiana, including the entire Baptist Health system. Kentucky Blood Center is the exclusive blood provider for UK HealthCare, Baptist Health, CHI Saint Joseph, Appalachian Regional Healthcare and more, according to a news release.
People can donate blood at one of eight donor centers or mobile drives. To find a mobile drive, click here.
Donors who give blood during the competition will receive a Big Blue Crush long-sleeve shirt. To schedule an appointment to give blood at a KBC location, click here. Donors can also call the KBC at 800-775-2522.
KBC donor centers in Louisville:
- Middletown Donor Center: 14002 Shelbyville Road, Louisville
- Hillview Donor Center: 5406 Antle Drive, Louisville
Other KBC donor centers:
- Beaumont Donor Center: 3121 Beaumont Centre Circle, Lexington
- Andover Donor Center: 3130 Maple Leaf Drive, Lexington
- Pikeville Donor Center: 472 South Mayo Trail, Pikeville
- Somerset Donor Center: 10 Stonegate Centre (Stoplight 16A), Somerset
- Tri-County Donor Center: 1454 West Cumberland Gap Parkway, Corbin
- Frankfort Donor Center: 363 Versailles Road, Frankfort
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