MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson community exceeded expectations on the opening day of the Battle of the Badges community blood drive, collecting more donations than organizers anticipated and adding momentum to an ongoing effort to address a severe regional blood shortage.
According to Tianna Frazell, the new local contact for the American Red Cross, donors contributed 121 total units of blood on day one, surpassing the daily goal of 116 units by five.
The friendly competition between local first responders is already heating up. After the first day of donations, Hutchinson Fire Department supporters lead the Battle of the Badges scoreboard with 60 ballots, while Hutchinson Police Department supporters recorded 48 ballots.
In total, donors contributed 83 units of whole blood and completed 19 Power Red procedures, yielding an additional 38 units. Organizers say every unit collected will help patients in area hospitals who rely on regular blood transfusions for emergencies, surgeries, and ongoing treatments.
“The energy today was amazing,” Frazell said. “Every single donation is making a real impact on patients in need, and we are incredibly grateful for the community’s continued support.”
Appointments remain available for the remaining days of the drive:
- Tuesday - 31 whole blood and 8 Power Red appointments remain
- Wednesday - 30 whole blood and 1 Power Red appointment remain
While turnout has been strong, Red Cross officials emphasize that the blood supply remains critically low and encourage residents who are eligible to schedule an appointment and keep the momentum going.
The Battle of the Badges blood drive continues through Wednesday, combining friendly rivalry with a shared goal of saving lives across the Hutchinson community.