The UT-Chattanooga community is invited to grab their bell bottoms and help local hospital patients, as the university and Blood Assurance host the semi-annual Bloodanooga blood drive. The event’s theme is ‘70s disco.
The two-day blood drive will take place Oct. 10-11 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. inside the University Center Tennessee Room. It’s open to all university students, faculty, staff and the general public.
“It’s always a treat to return to campus for what has historically been a terrific, well-attended blood drive,” said Dr.
Liz Culler, chief medical officer for Blood Assurance. “In the past, student participation has been amazing, and we hope that continues next week. It’s important that young, healthy individuals understand the importance of becoming regular blood donors.”
Bloodanooga was first held in 2011. According to Blood Assurance, nearly 7,800 units of blood have been collected since the inaugural event 12 years ago.
As an incentive to donate at this event, Blood Assurance will be awarding each blood donor on Tuesday and Wednesday a commemorative Bloodanooga t-shirt that pays homage to the disco era. Donors will also be entered to win a Sony turntable sound system. Moreover, free food and drinks will be available, along with prizes.
Donors can visit www.bloodassurance.org/schedule, call 800-962-0628 or text BAGIVE to 999777, to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are also accepted.
To be eligible to donate, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids and eat a hearty meal prior to donating.