As excitement builds for the return of baseball in Kansas City, the Kansas City Royals stepped up to the plate in a different way this week: helping save lives before the first pitch of the season is even thrown.
Community Blood Center (CBC) partnered with the Royals to host a community blood drive at Kauffman Stadium, bringing together generous donors eager to make an impact ahead of opening day. More than 70 donors rolled up their sleeves, each receiving a pair of Royals tickets as a thank-you for their lifesaving contribution.
The event is part of a long-standing partnership between CBC and the Royals that spans more than 25 years. Together, they’ve helped strengthen the region’s blood supply and raise awareness about the ongoing need for donations. Since 2020 alone, blood drives hosted at Kauffman Stadium have resulted in nearly 500 donations, each with the potential to save up to three lives.
“At the Kansas City Royals, we’re proud to support efforts that make a real difference in our community,” said Iris Edelen, Senior Vice President of People and Culture for the Royals. “Partnering with Community Blood Center for more than two decades has shown us the incredible impact our fans and neighbors can have when they come together. Every donation represents hope for patients across our region, and we’re grateful to everyone who stepped up to give.”
The timing of the drive served as a powerful reminder that while baseball season may be just beginning, the need for blood donations never takes a break.
“Every blood donation is a lifeline for patients in our community,” said Chelsea Tibbetts, Vice President of Blood Operations at Community Blood Center. “Partnerships like this with the Kansas City Royals not only make donating more accessible, but also inspire our community to come together for something bigger than themselves. We’re incredibly grateful to every donor who stepped up; because of them, patients across our region will receive the care they need.”
Blood donation remains a constant and critical need. Eligible donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. With recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to donate.
To learn more about eligibility or to schedule an appointment, visit savealifenow.org or call 877.468.6844.
