The annual Battle of the Badges competition returns to the Brentwood Library on Wednesday, August 23 and Thursday, August 24, 2017, at the Brentwood Library from noon – 6p, and 7a – 1p.
The #BattleoftheBadges drive is a national rivalry among first responder groups to help ensure the blood supply keeps pace with demand during the holidays. Groups participating this year include the Brentwood Fire and Rescue Department versus the Brentwood Police Department.
This year’s competition is expanding to two days due to the success of the last few years events. The community donated more than 150 pints at the 2016 blood drive. This year’s goal is to collect more than 200 pints of blood and platelet donations to help children like Leo Quinius, who is the honoree of this year’s Brentwood blood drive.
Leo was born with a cleft lip and palate. At only three months old, Leo had open-heart surgery at Vanderbilt to repair his uniquely made heart. Donated blood was vital for his new and improved heart. He is now strong and healthy thanks to volunteers who donated blood.
In addition to helping save lives and supporting local first responders, those who come to give for the Battle of the Badges will receive a Red Cross t-shirt and refreshments, plus many free giveaways such as Tennessee Titan tickets. Talk Sports Radio 104.5 The Zone will be broadcasting LIVE during the blood drive.
The winter holiday season is one of the most challenging periods of the year for the Red Cross to collect enough blood and platelet donations. Busy schedules and inclement weather often mean fewer blood donations. However, the need for blood is constant. Every day, regardless of the season, hospital patients need blood or platelets for cancer treatments, lifesaving surgeries, or emergency care related to accidents or trauma.
You are welcome to walk-in or make an appointment in advance by contacting the Red Cross at 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and using sponsor code: brentwoodbattleofthebadges or contact Sara Smyly at [email protected]. Brentwood Library is located at 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood.
