Join the Race: Donate Blood for a Chance to Win Super Bowl LIX Tickets!

Partnering for a Cause: Red Cross and NFL's Blood Donation Initiative

As the excitement for Super Bowl LIX begins to build, the American Red Cross and the National Football League (NFL) are joining forces once again. This partnership aims to kick off National Blood Donor Month with a thrilling incentive for those willing to lend a hand by donating blood. Running from January 1 to January 26, 2025, this initiative invites individuals to make life-saving contributions while entering for a chance to win a memorable trip to the Super Bowl!

Why Blood Donations Matter

Winter can be a challenging time for blood donation efforts. With the forecast predicting severe winter weather across many regions, the American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stable blood supply during this critical period. Paul Sullivan, Senior Vice President of Donor Services for the Red Cross, highlighted that last winter alone, winter storms led to about 16,000 uncollected blood and platelet donations.

Given these conditions, the Red Cross encourages individuals to donate to help mitigate blood shortages that can impact hospitals. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood for various reasons, from emergency surgeries to ongoing treatments for illnesses such as cancer or sickle cell disease.

How to Participate

Participating in this exciting initiative is straightforward. Donors who schedule an appointment to give blood between January 1 and January 26 will automatically be entered into a giveaway for a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LIX. The prize includes all expenses covered: round-trip airfare, three-night hotel accommodations, access to pre-game activities at the stadium, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, plus a $1,000 gift card for personal expenses. To enter, donors can make appointments by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Challenges Ahead

Besides icy roads that could deter people from making blood donations, a notable increase in respiratory illnesses like the common cold, COVID-19, and RSV complicates the matter further. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a surge in respiratory virus activity nationwide, necessitating caution among the public amid the cold and flu season. However, the Red Cross reassures potential donors that vaccinations do not affect one's ability to donate blood, provided they feel healthy and symptom-free at the time of donation.

Celebrating Blood Donors

In celebrating 55 years of National Blood Donor Month, the Red Cross expresses gratitude to blood donors like David Suggs, last year's winner of the Super Bowl giveaway. Donating blood is a heroic act that has tangible effects, as firsthand stories from previous winners showcase the unforgettable experience such events can offer. As David stated, "It's not just about being a firefighter or a first responder; it's about making a difference in someone's life through blood donation."

This initiative underscores the essence of community and giving back. The importance of blood donation cannot be overstated; unlike any medical treatments, blood cannot be manufactured and must always be replenished through voluntary donations.

Join the Cause

Ready to help your community and have a chance to enjoy one of the most exciting sports events of the year? Visit the Red Cross Blood Donation Site to book your appointment today. Remember, it might just be the most impactful decision you make this season. Every drop counts!

The American Red Cross remains committed not only to blood donation awareness but also to helping those affected by disasters, providing humanitarian aid, and supporting military families. For more information about their various services and initiatives, visit redcross.org.

Don't wait until the weather clears up—donate today and enter for a chance to win Super Bowl LIX tickets while saving lives!