Bruins, roll up your sleeves: The Big Ten blood drive challenge is back

Saving lives is part of UCLA's DNA. It's something we do every day in our hospitals and clinics, in our laboratories, and across our communities. Now Bruins are being asked to rally that lifesaving spirit for a new challenge, and hopefully bring home a Big Ten title in the process.

Currently in its third year, the "We Give Blood" drive is a friendly showdown among all 18 Big Ten universities to see whose students, employees, alumni, family members and fans across the country can donate the most blood by Dec. 4, with the school that logs the largest number of donations receiving a $1 million grant to support student or community health initiatives. (See where to donate and how to log your donation below.)

The competition, sponsored by global health care company Abbott and the Big Ten, comes at a particularly urgent moment. For only the second time in its history, the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis, with donations falling to a four-year summer low and crucial blood supplies now under serious strain.

"The 'We Give Blood' drive is about turning Bruin pride into lifesaving action," said Martin Jarmond, UCLA's Alice and Nahum Lainer Family Director of Athletics. "Bruins have always stepped up when called upon. At a time when our nation is facing a blood shortage, this is an opportunity for our students, alumni and fans to come together, make a meaningful impact and help save lives."

The challenge officially kicked off yesterday, Aug. 26, but donations by Bruins made anywhere in the United States since Aug. 12 can still be added to the UCLA tally.

Why blood donations matter for UCLA and the nation

At UCLA, blood donation is how our world-class UCLA Health hospitals continue to provide excellent care to patients in need, from trauma victims and transplant recipients to cancer patients and mothers experiencing complications after childbirth. Platelet donations are especially needed, and UCLA's medical staff can walk you through the process if you'd like to learn more.

In addition to addressing current shortages, "We Give Blood" aims to build a new generation of donors at UCLA and nationwide. Nearly a quarter of blood donations come from people over 65, many of whom will eventually be unable to donate, while only about 3% of eligible Americans currently give blood. Among the nearly 40 million people in the Big Ten community who are likely eligible, organizers estimate that if just 1 in 15 became regular donors, it could close the gap left by an aging donor population.

So get out there and donate!