#United States #Lincoln #Abbott #University of Nebraska #Blood Donation

University of Nebraska's Remarkable Victory in the 'We Give Blood Drive'

This college football season, a remarkable initiative known as "The We Give Blood Drive" organized by Abbott and the Big Ten Conference has seen an extraordinary response from students, alumni, and fans alike.

Nearly 20,000 participants stepped forward to donate their blood, contributing to a vital cause that could potentially save up to 60,000 lives. The campaign was rooted in a critical need for blood donations across the nation, addressing a shortage that has been felt significantly, particularly among young donors aged 19 to 24, who have seen participation rates drop almost 33% in recent years.

The competition kicked off amidst the excitement of college football and culminated in a high-stakes announcement at the Discover Big Ten Championship Game, where the winners were revealed. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln not only took home the prestigious blood drive trophy but also was awarded a generous grant of $1 million from Abbott. This funding is earmarked for programs aimed at enhancing the health of students and the surrounding community.

University President, Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., expressed pride in the collective effort, remarking on the empathy and commitment demonstrated by students and staff alike. He stated, "This achievement reflects the spirit and resilience of our community, showing how Nebraskans come together to make a difference."

Abbott's CEO, Robert Ford, highlighted the fun yet impactful nature of the competition. He noted that many of the donors were first-timers, which is crucial for building a new generation of blood donors. His sentiments resonate with the core goal of the campaign: not only to alleviate the current blood crisis but also to foster a culture of giving that sustains future needs.

Among the inspiring stories shared during the campaign was that of Genevieve Wright, a young girl from Lincoln, Nebraska, who owes her life to the many blood donors. After being born with a rare condition, she required multiple transfusions, showcasing the stark and personal reality behind the numbers. Her mother, Shelly Wright, conveyed heartfelt gratitude to those who made donations possible, expressing how critical blood donations are for patients in dire situations.

The We Give Blood Drive ran from September 26 to December 6, 2024, and will return in the next fall football season, with hopes of encouraging even more participants. Tracking the donations live, schools competed for bragging rights while donors could enter sweepstakes for tickets to the championship game.

This initiative underscores the power of community involvement in addressing healthcare challenges and maintaining a sustainable lifeline for those in need. As the University of Nebraska celebrates this achievement, it serves as a reminder of the significant impact that collective action can have in saving lives. Together, Big Ten students, alumni, and fans not only showed their loyalty to their teams but also to their communities and the call for action in blood donation.