The big game between The University of Memphis and Ole Miss is less than a week away, and for the football players it means getting rest and more practice. But for many University of Memphis students it is a time for donating blood.
Lifeblood started the competition at the beginning of August between the alumni associations from both universities to see who can donate the most blood.
Alumni members from each alma mater can show their school spirit by donating blood at any of the 12 centers in the region. Staff members, faculty and students are encouraged to participate as well.
“We know The University of Memphis and Ole Miss have a huge fan base in the community, and we want to engage the competition in a positive manner,” said Beena J. White, senior director of marketing and communications at Lifeblood.
Lifeblood supplies blood to local hospitals everyday. Whether it is kids who have cancer or adults who have been in a car accident, Lifeblood is there.
The contest between The U of M and Ole Miss is a great way for people to “roll up their sleeves” and give back to the community, White said.
This is the first year Lifeblood has promoted the competition, but if the results are promising the contest will continue every year before the first game of the season. Tammy Hedges, U of M executive director of alumni, said the alumni association was proud to be a part of the contest. The association promoted the competition by working with Residence Life, which put posters in dorms, and the athletic department, which attached flyers to the envelope of season tickets for season-ticket holders.
They also sent various e-mails and covered the front page of The University of Memphis’ Web site with information about the Lifeblood Bowl.
“A little friendly competition never hurt anyone,” Hedges said. “We want to win — it’s a great cause.”
“This contest is a great way to let alums stay involved after graduation,” said U of M alumna Ashley James. “Unfortunately I can’t donate blood because I am anemic, but hopefully people who can donate will.
“Donating blood will not only help The University but will also help the community,” James said. “After the hurricane incidents this past year, blood donation is needed, probably more than ever.”
Lifeblood will present the winning alumni association with a trophy during the game on Sept. 5. The biggest winner will be the local blood supply, White said.
As of today, The University of Memphis is in the lead, according to the Lifeblood Web site. It appears The U of M has donated twice as much as Ole Miss. To keep watch of who is in first place, log on to www.lifeblood.org.
Donations can be taken at the Autozone Lifeblood Donor Center, located on-campus near The University bookstore. It is open every Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
