18-05-2025
Blood drive breaks record for number of donations
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – The 5th annual Flying for Life blood drive wrapped up Saturday with a record breaking total.
The Flying for Life Blood Drive involved a friendly competition between Avera Careflight and Sanford AirMed — the winner being the team with the most blood donations.
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Donors were encouraged to cast their donation 'vote' for either Sanford or Avera, and both organizations put it on to strengthen the local blood supply heading into the summer months.
The winner receives bragging rights for the year and possession of the traveling trophy.
The competition was close, with Sanford AirMed winning by merely two votes at 471 donations. Avera Careflight collected 469 donations, bringing this year's total to 940 –which exceeds all previous records for the blood drive, according to a press release.
'This event has surpassed all expectations, and we are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming community support,' says Ken Versteeg, Executive Director of Community Blood Bank.
The Community Blood Bank says these donations will go toward the community blood supply, which could save about 2,800 local lives.
'While life is unpredictable, blood donors' help us provide consistency in maintaining an adequate blood supply for our community.' Versteeg said.
Those who weren't able to attend this year's event can still schedule a donation by visiting the Community Blood Bank website or calling (605) 331-3222.
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