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One of the best events involving any professional sports franchise happens again today at Town & Country Convention Center in Mission Valley.
The 38th Annual Chargers Blood Drive, a joint effort of the Chargers and San Diego Blood Bank, will be open from 8AM until 5PM.
The Chargers Blood Drive got its start in 1979 when the team held a blood drive to help kicker Rolf Benirschke, who was suffering from ulcerative colitis. Over 1,000 San Diegans turned out at then-San Diego Stadium to donate, launching a tradition which continues to this day.
The Holiday Season tends to be one of the toughest times of year for blood donations, with many people traveling or attending family and work functions. As a former Hospital Services Representative at San Diego Blood Bank, having received urgent calls for blood products from hospitals, I can attest firsthand to the difficulties of making sure area hospitals have a sufficient amount of blood available to meet the needs of the community. Considering that up to 3 different blood products can be provided with a single donation, it’s not a stretch to say each donation may help save the lives of 3 different patients.
Admission to the Blood Drive is $5 per person, with donors receiving a full refund following their donation. Donors also receive a free T-shirt commemorating the Blood Drive, a VIP wristband for player autographs, and a parking pass validation. There are other events at the blood drive, which includes a “Wellness Zone” with interactive exhibits, food samples, and musical entertainment.
So, how about we all forget about tough losses and stadium talk for one day. Let’s come together as a community and help save each other’s lives.
I hope to see some of the BFTB community while I’m working. Keep an eye out for the tall bearded San Diego Blood Bank employee in the Danny Woodhead jersey.
Author’s Note: Full disclosure. I have been employed by San Diego Blood Bank since April 1999. I was neither required or requested to write this post for BFTB on behalf of San Diego Blood Bank or the San Diego Chargers.