SIOUX FALLS, SD — The 6th annual Flying for Life blood drive wrapped up this Saturday, May 16th, continuing its tradition of extraordinary community support. With a total collection of 940 this event has the potential to save up to 2,820 lives in our community. The final tally places the Avera Careflight as this year’s winner with 508 donation votes and Sanford AirMed with 432 donation votes. Both departments went head-to-head in this friendly competition, rallying donors across the Sioux Falls community to cast their donation “vote” for their preferred flight crew. The winner earns bragging rights for the year and takes possession of the traveling trophy.
Flying for Life has become a cornerstone of the region’s effort to bolster the blood supply ahead of the summer months, a period that historically sees a sharp decline in donations even as demand remains high. Every unit collected has the potential to save up to three lives, meaning each donor’s contribution carries real impact for critically ill patients across the region.
“This event continues to exceed our expectations, and we are deeply grateful for the dedication our community shows year after year,” said Ken Versteeg, Executive Director of Community Blood Bank. “Both Avera Careflight and Sanford AirMed see firsthand every day just how vital a strong blood supply is; they are on the front lines responding to emergencies where that supply makes the difference between life and death. These donations provide a critical start as we enter the summer, when maintaining adequate inventory becomes the most challenging. Blood donors bring consistency and hope to patients whose lives can change in an instant.”
Community members who were unable to attend this year’s event are encouraged to schedule a future donation by visiting cbblifeblood.org or calling 605-331-3222. Donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with a signed parental consent form), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good general health.
Community Blood Bank has served as a cooperative of Sanford USD Medical Center and Avera McKennan Hospital since 1976. As the sole blood provider to 43 hospitals across the local area, it operates independently from all national blood bank organizations.
