NORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State baseball team and the American Red Cross paired together to collect 26 units of blood at a blood drive co-hosted by the groups Friday on Illinois State's campus.
Several Illinois State student-athletes and staff donated, including head baseball coach Bo Durkac, assistant baseball coach Mike Stalowy and Director of Athletics Larry Lyons.
"First off, I want to thank Tammy Hibser of the American Red Cross and her dedicated team. I also want to thank Moe Khalil and Lucas Barickman, of Redbird Red Cross, for their involvement in recruiting potential donors," Durkac said. "It was truly a team effort this year, and many lives will be saved because of our collaboration."
With each pint carrying the potential to save three lives, the blood collected Friday has the potential to save 78 lives.
"What a wonderful contribution to the blood program," said Hibser, an American Red Cross Account Manager. "The American Red Cross could not accomplish our mission of saving lives without the support of our volunteer sponsors and donors that contribute to the blood program."
Khalil was equally pleased with the success of Friday's blood drive.
"I would like to thank the ISU baseball team's players for all their help. Also a big thanks to Bo Durkac for making this a very successful blood drive," Khalil said. "Remember, one donation has the potential to save up to three lives. I look forward to working with the ISU baseball team in the near future."
Friday's blood drive marked the 11th year of the event, which has raised a total of 469 units.
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