Hospital blood drive supports friendly competition

Dozens of nurses, colleagues and local residents donated blood at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital during a recent community blood drive. In just one day, 25 donations were collected — enough to help save up to 75 lives.

As donors gave, they could cast a vote for their favorite team — fire or police — as part of the annual “Boots vs. Badges” campaign by SunCoast Blood Centers. The friendly competition invites donors to show support their support for local first responders. According to SunCoast Blood Centers, Team Boots — representing area fire and EMS crews — currently leads with 58.7% of the vote, ahead of Team Badges with 41.3%. The competition continues through August 23.

“Community blood donations are critical to help us care for our community. It is inspiring to see so many of our colleagues donating to make sure our blood supply stays strong,” said Kathy Larter, Laboratory Director at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital as she rolled up her sleeve to donate.

The annual summer campaign helps boost blood donations during the summer months when donations usually decline, but the need remains high.