Our Blood Institute Hosts Largest First Responder Blood Drive In State

On Saturday, Oklahomans can help save lives through the state's largest first-responder blood drive.

Our Blood Institute says this is more than just a blood drive, it is a fun event for the whole family.

Msgt. Gary Knight with the Oklahoma Police Department said that as first responders, they see the impact of blood donations firsthand.

"People will say to me, 'It's so cool you get a job where you make a difference in somebody's life.' This is your chance to make a difference in somebody's life," Knight said.

Knight says his family has also seen firsthand how blood donations can save lives.

His daughter-in-law Destiny needed blood during an emergency C-section.

"I also hemorrhaged after I gave birth, and I nearly died. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the blood donation," Destiny said.

That life-saving donation reinforced Destiny's belief in donating blood herself.

"I'll give blood every single time," Destiny said. "There are people they don't even know they're gonna need blood. They go in for something routine, and all of a sudden, their life is in balance, and it makes a difference if someone gives blood or not."

The blood drive is on Saturday from 7:30 to 2:30 at the southwest corner of the Paycom Center by Scissortail Park.

There will also be free food from the Oklahoma Pork Council while supplies last and a live DJ.