“Once again, Buckeyes rolled up their sleeves to be part of an effort that’s so much bigger than a game,” said Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “I’m thrilled that Ohio State won another Blood Battle, but the greatest win is that thousands of lives across Ohio and Michigan will be saved thanks to the generosity of our communities. Buckeyes understand that we all serve a common good, and I’m grateful to every individual who contributed to another successful Blood Battle.”
The blood collected by Ohio State stays local to central Ohio, benefiting patients at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Blood is most needed by patients who are being treated for traumatic injuries, cancer, organ transplants and blood disease.
“One of the rewarding parts of holding this event on Ohio State’s campus is seeing how many first-time donors step up for those in need,” said Joe Gantz, Versiti area vice president and director of donor services. “This competition is critical for recruiting the next generation of blood donors, inspiring a lifetime of giving back.”
The collection totals from Ohio State’s previous Blood Battle victories include:
2024: 1,707 – 1,407 (Ohio State win)
2023: 1,732 – 1,469 (Ohio State win)
2022: 1,630 – 1,533 (Ohio State win)
Running simultaneously with the Blood Battle was Abbott’s We Give Blood Drive. The Big Ten’s conference-wide competition is in its second year and is aimed at addressing national blood shortages. Blood Battle donors were able to count their donation for that campaign, which lasts until December 5. Blood Battle donors can still enter their donation by visiting https://bigten.org/abbott/ or texting DONATE to 222688 (ABBOTT).
Blood donors can donate whole blood every eight weeks. Versiti strongly encourages central Ohio residents to consider donating blood as frequently as they can, as there is always a need.
Blood donation facts:
- Only 3% of the U.S. population donates each year.
- If just 1% more Americans would donate, experts estimate that the blood supply shortage would disappear.
- 75% of the population will need blood at some point in their lives.
Versiti has been the blood and blood products provider to the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center since 2019. In March 2022, Versiti opened its first permanent blood center in Ohio at 3830 Fishinger Blvd., Hilliard, OH 43026. Versiti also holds mobile blood drives across central Ohio throughout the year.