Millan Foundation, APSU invite community to ‘Give Back, Give Blood’ on Oct. 1

CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Millan Foundation, Blood Assurance and partners across Austin Peay State University are inviting the community to turn a few minutes into a potentially life-changing difference during the “Give Back, Give Blood” community blood drive.

The drive will be held Thursday, Oct. 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Rooms 100 and 102 of the APSU Health Professions Building, located at 341 Eighth Street. The goal is simple: fill every available donation appointment.

Blood Assurance supplies blood to hospitals throughout Middle Tennessee, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center, TriStar Centennial Medical Center, TriStar Skyline Medical Center, and Vanderbilt Clarksville Hospital. These hospitals rely on a steady supply of donated blood to care for patients receiving treatment for trauma, cancer, surgeries, and other medical needs.

“I was taught by my dad when I was old enough to give blood, it’s one thing you can do to help others that doesn’t cost you anything to give! So, if you’re able, roll up your sleeve and give,” said George Watson, chairman of the Millan Foundation Ambassador Committee.

The event is supported by the Millan Foundation and several APSU partners, including the Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Nursing, College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, and APSU Athletics.

“When my wife was fighting cancer, blood transfusions weren’t optional; they were what got her to the other side of treatment. Every unit she received came from a stranger who simply decided to show up. This October 1, APSU is showing up too. Alongside the Millan Foundation, APSU Department of Health and Human Performance, APSU Athletics, the APSU School of Nursing, and the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, we’re proving that when a community pulls in one direction, we don’t just support each other, we save each other,” said Tim Leszczak, professor and chair of the APSU Department of Health and Human Performance.

Appointments will be available from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To sign up, please visit https://donor.bloodassurance.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/178054 and select your preferred time slot. Once you finish registering, you will receive confirmation of your appointment.

For more information about the blood drive, or to learn more about Blood Assurance and how you can get involved, please email foundation@millanenterprises.com or visit bloodassurance.org.