KIRKSVILLE, Mo. (May 11, 2021) — The City of Kirksville fire and law enforcement personnel are teaming up with the American Red Cross for a lifesaving event to see who can recruit the most blood donors in their community to donate blood.
Eligible donors have a chance to take part in this friendly competition and respond to the call to help those in need on May 27 from noon to 6 p.m. at NEMO Fairgrounds, 2700 E. Illinois, Highway 11 East, in Kirksville. Donors’ blood donations will help decide which agency wins bragging rights until the next event. Both municipalities help save lives on a daily basis. The Battle of the Badges is another way to do that, and both departments are excited for this year’s challenge.
This is the 15th consecutive year the blood drive will be held. This year’s drive will take on a more personal note as it will be held in memory of former Kirksville Police Chief Steve Farnsworth, who passed away unexpectedly on October 11, 2020. Steve was a dedicated blood donor and was heavily involved in the community. Over 1,000 blood donations have been collected over the previous 14 years.
“First responders know how important it is to have blood readily available for emergencies,” said Amanda Clark, Account Manager, American Red Cross of Kirksville. “By supporting this blood drive, they are helping ensure that blood is on the shelves before it is needed for the region’s blood supply. We are extremely grateful to be able to work with the fire and police departments on this drive again this year and hope the community will come out to honor Chief Farnsworth’s memory.”
As the nation transitions to a new, hopeful phase of this devastating pandemic and people begin to return to some of their favorite activities, the Red Cross is concerned about the impact this could have on blood donor turnout and the blood supply this summer. The need for lifesaving blood transfusions never takes a break. It’s critical to have blood ready to go when every second counts.
In thanks for making it a summer full of life, those who come to give blood at the Kirksville Battle of the Badges will automatically be entered for a chance to win a travel trailer camper that sleeps five*, powered by Suburban Propane, via their SuburbanCares initiative.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, schedule online, call 1-800-RED CROSS or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
* Restrictions apply. Winner must provide tow vehicle with the appropriate tow capacity for use with the prize vehicle at all times, i.e., such as a full-sized truck or SUV, in order to take delivery of the prize (2021 Coachmen Clipper Cadet 21CBH, estimated at 5,000 pounds). Additional information and details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/SummerFullOfLife.