NEW BERN, N.C. (WITN) – The American Red Cross has declared a national emergency blood shortage, citing a limited supply of blood in U.S. hospitals to treat patients. In New Bern, local fire and police departments responded with a blood drive that doubles as a friendly competition.
The event, known as the Battle of the Badges, pits the New Bern Fire Department against the New Bern Police Department to see which agency can get the most votes from blood donors. The competition launched six years ago and has resulted in a 3-3 tie heading into this year’s drive.
New Bern Police Capt. Marquie Morrison-Brown said the event was created to serve the broader community.
“This was such a great opportunity, especially for the citizens of New Bern and Craven County, and as you know, anyone can benefit from one of these donations,” Morrison-Brown said.
New Bern Fire-Rescue Deputy Fire Marshal Jeremy Blalock has donated blood for years alongside his work as a first responder.
“It’s just an easy way to give back to somebody else — it’s the easiest way to help somebody in need in their moment of crisis,” Blalock said.
American Red Cross Account Manager Mac Bell said the shortage has already had a personal impact.
“Someone in my family who’s really close to me needed blood for the first time and they went to the hospital, and they really needed it, and the hospital told them that they didn’t have it,” Bell said.
Bell also warned that the shortage could affect anyone seeking care.
“You could go into a hospital, and not every single time is that blood there for you, and you’re just kind of out of luck,” Bell said.
Bell said the timing of the New Bern drive is critical.
“With the critical blood shortage that we’re in, it’s a really, really important blood drive that has the opportunity to help replenish those shelves that are right now a little bit empty,” Bell said.
Those looking to donate can visit redcrossblood.org, enter their ZIP code to find the nearest blood drive, and schedule an appointment.
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