Photos by Cenn Hall
Story has been updated since initial publication on Jan. 26 with the results of the blood drive.
Once again, Bradley and Illinois State University solidified their rivalry by teaming up with the American Red Cross for the annual Challenge on 74, a competitive blood drive between the two universities.
Established in 2011, Challenge on 74 combats the shortage of blood donations that occur during the winter season. Like previous years, the blood drive was held in Markin Family Student Recreation Center from Tuesday through Thursday.
“Winter storms this month [have] forced many blood drives to cancel, causing thousands of blood and platelet donations to go uncollected,” said external communications manager for the American Red Cross Laura McGuire. “Blood and platelet donations are urgently needed now so patients can continue to receive the life-saving treatments they need.”
Because of this, the three-day challenge not only serves as a way to see which university can donate the most blood, but also as a solution for those in need of donations.
“The benefits of donating blood are countless. Many donors say they feel a great sense of gratification knowing they helped someone in need,” McGuire said. “And they enjoy the juice and cookies.”
In addition to helping those in need, Challenge on 74 also serves as a way for Bradley students to inform the community, while attempting to donate more than ISU.
“I think [this event] raises a lot of awareness as to how critical the need for blood is,” Jessica Moreano, a sophomore international studies and psychology double major said. “It gives students the opportunity to give back to the community without actually having to get off [campus] because I know a lot of people don’t have cars or transportation.”
According to Moreano, donating blood is an incredibly important, yet easy, decision for her to make.
“I try to [donate blood] as much as possible,” Moreano said. “I know there’s such a critical need for it; there’s always people who can use the blood, so I figure, why not? It helps someone out.”
McGuire said the ability to donate blood is an opportunity to help others in a unique way.
“Blood cannot be manufactured,” McGuire said. “The only way we can receive blood is through one another. It’s a chance for others to give more life to patients in need. You never know when you or someone you love will need blood. It’s the blood on the shelves that help to save lives during emergencies.”
The Challenge on 74 blood drive collected 318 pints of blood, saving up to 954 lives. Bradley collected 146 pints of blood and ISU collected 172 pints of blood by the end of the competition.
To donate blood, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor app, visit redcrossblood.org or call (800)-733-2767 to make an appointment. Ask a representative for information.
