Murfreesboro, Tennessee, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is organizing its annual ‘Bleed Blue to Beat WKU’ blood drive, scheduled for October 27 to 29. This year’s drive emphasizes awareness of sickle cell disease and aims to collect 800-900 units of blood. The event fosters a competitive spirit with Western Kentucky University (WKU) and incentivizes donors with T-shirts, eGift cards, food, and cash prizes. Walk-in donations are welcome, but early sign-up is encouraged. Community involvement is crucial, especially during flu season, to meet the urgent needs for blood supply.
Murfreesboro, Tennessee – Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) will host its annual “Bleed Blue to Beat WKU” blood drive from October 27 to 29, from noon to 6 p.m. each day, at the Campus Recreation Center located at 1848 Blue Raider Drive. This year’s blood drive emphasizes sickle cell disease awareness and aims to collect between 800 to 900 units of blood.
The event fosters a friendly competition with Western Kentucky University (WKU) to collect the most blood donations. Last year, MTSU collected 405 pints of blood, surpassing WKU by 36 units. Since the competition began in 2010, both universities have gathered nearly 13,000 units of blood, potentially saving 38,000 lives.
Sickle cell disease affects approximately 100,000 Americans, predominantly impacting Black or African American individuals. The American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of matching blood types, particularly from Black donors, to support the needs of sickle cell patients.
To encourage participation, donors will receive several incentives, including:
- A commemorative T-shirt
- A $10 eGift Card to a merchant of choice
- Free pizza
- A chance to win one of three $500 gift cards
- MTSU football tickets
Walk-in donors are welcome; however, signing up in advance is recommended through the Blood Donor App using the sponsor code MTSU. Donors should be aware of specific height and weight requirements that differ by gender. Free parking will be available for off-campus donors at visitor parking spots at MT One Stop, 1860 Blue Raider Drive.
Volunteers are needed to help run the blood drive, which is crucial during the upcoming cold and flu season, along with periods of severe weather. The Red Cross requires approximately 29,000 units of blood daily in the United States, making events like this even more critical.
Background Context
The annual “Bleed Blue to Beat WKU” blood drive has become a staple in the community since its inception, with MTSU and WKU engaging in a spirited rivalry to support this vital cause. Both universities aim to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and to provide assistance for individuals suffering from sickle cell disease, a condition that requires consistent blood transfusions for many patients.
Event Details
- Date: October 27-29
- Time: Noon to 6 p.m.
- Location: MTSU Campus Recreation Center, 1848 Blue Raider Drive
- Target Units: 800-900
- Incentives: T-shirts, eGift cards, free pizza, cash prizes, football tickets
- Parking: Free for off-campus donors
- Volunteer Opportunities: Available for assistance during the event
Conclusion
The “Bleed Blue to Beat WKU” blood drive not only serves to meet the urgent need for blood donations but also highlights the importance of community involvement in improving health outcomes for those affected by sickle cell disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Bleed Blue to Beat WKU” blood drive?
The “Bleed Blue to Beat WKU” blood drive is an annual event held by Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU).
When is the blood drive taking place?
This year’s blood drive runs from October 27 to 29, from noon to 6 p.m. each day.
Where will the event be held?
It will take place at MTSU’s Campus Recreation Center located at 1848 Blue Raider Drive.
What is the focus of this year’s blood drive?
The blood drive will specifically focus on helping patients with sickle cell disease, affecting about 100,000 Americans, primarily Black or African American individuals.
What incentives are offered to donors?
- A commemorative T-shirt
- A $10 eGift Card to a merchant of choice
- Free pizza
- A chance to win one of three $500 gift cards
- MTSU football tickets
How can I sign up to donate?
Walk-in donors are welcome, but signing up in advance is encouraged through the Blood Donor App using the sponsor code MTSU.
Is there an urgent need for blood?
The blood drive supports the urgent need for blood, especially crucial during the cold and flu season and times of severe weather. The Red Cross requires around 29,000 units of blood daily in the United States.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Bleed Blue to Beat WKU Blood Drive |
| Date | October 27-29 |
| Time | Noon to 6 p.m. daily |
| Location | MTSU Campus Recreation Center |
| Focus | Sickle Cell Disease Awareness |
| Target Units | 800-900 |
| Incentives | T-shirt, eGift Cards, free pizza, gift card drawings, football tickets |
| Parking | Free for off-campus donors |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
MTSU Hosts Annual Blood Drive to Support Sickle Cell Patients
Additional Resources
- GoBlueRaiders: 100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive
- WGNS Radio: Bleed Blue to Beat WKU Blood Drive
- Rutherford Source: MTSU Ready to Bleed Blue
- Google Search: Sickle Cell Disease
- Wikipedia: Blood Donation
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