Sioux Falls, SD — The 5th annual Flying for Life blood drive concluded this Saturday, May 17th with unprecedented success. Current tallies show Sanford AirMed narrowly taking the win this year with 471 donation votes, while Avera Careflight has collected 469 donation votes. With Sanford AirMed taking the victory for 2025, this friendly competition has collected a total of 940, surpassing all previous records and making a significant difference in our community’s blood supply and potentially saving up to 2,820 local lives.
The collaborative initiative was established by both organizations to strengthen the community’s blood supply heading into the critical summer months. As Sioux Falls continues to grow, so does the need for a robust blood supply. Donors were encouraged to support these essential emergency services by casting their donation “vote” for either Sanford AirMed or Avera Careflight. The winner receives bragging rights for the year and possession of the traveling trophy.
“This event has surpassed all expectations, and we are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming community support,” says Ken Versteeg, Executive Director of Community Blood Bank. “Both Avera Careflight and Sanford AirMed witness firsthand the critical importance of maintaining a strong blood supply as they respond to emergencies daily. These donations will help kick off our summer with a solid supply, when we historically see a significant decrease in blood donations. Through the dedication of local volunteers and our community partners, we can continue meeting the needs of patients throughout Sioux Falls. While life is unpredictable, blood donors’ help us provide consistency in maintaining an adequate blood supply for our community.”
Community members who weren’t able to attend this event can still schedule a donation at future events by visiting cbblifeblood.org or calling 605-331-3222. Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with a signed parent consent form), weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in good general health. It is recommended that donors eat and drink plenty of fluids before donating blood. Please bring identification at the time of donation.
Community Blood Bank is a cooperative of Sanford USD Medical Center and Avera McKennan Hospital since 1976. We are the sole blood provider to 43 local area hospitals and is independent from other
