Western Kentucky Hilltopper running back L.T. Sanders (7) outraces several MTSU defenders in an NCAA football game Thursday, Sept, 28, 2023, at Houchens Industries/L.T. Smith Stadium in Bowling Green, Ky. Western Kentucky defeated visiting Middle Tennessee State, 31-10. (Daily News photo by Joe Imel/joe.imel@bgdailynews.com)

The annual 100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive against MTSU returns Sept. 9-11 leading up to Western Kentucky’s football game at Middle Tennessee.

Campus and community members are encouraged to schedule appointments to donate in favor of WKU at the Preston Health and Activities Center, located at 1906 College Heights Boulevard. Walk-in appointments are welcome, but scheduled appointments are encouraged. Appointments are available from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. each day. Free parking spaces are available for community members scheduled to donate. Parking and donation details can be found online at wku.edu/blood-drive.

Those who donate will have the opportunity to win prizes, including a free T-shirt. WKU’s goal is to reach the amount of 675 donors.

The winner of the 100 Miles of Hope Blood Drive will be announced on Sept. 14 at the WKU vs. MTSU football game at Floyd Stadium in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The American Red Cross will present the trophy to the winning school.

Nationwide, the American Red Cross is experiencing a blood shortage, as donations have dropped and need has increased throughout the summer months. The American Red Cross is also looking for donors to help combat the sickle cell disease which is primarily found in African Americans.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.{&end}