BROOKLYN, Mich. – What began in 2002 as a tribute to honor the victims and heroes of September 11, has now evolved into so much more. This year, the Spirit of America blood drive will return to the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan, and it promises to be just as memorable.
This event isn’t just a blood drive; it’s a unique opportunity for the community to honor and remember all those affected by 9/11.
Since its inception in 2002, the Spirit of America blood drive has collected more than 9,773 pints of blood, all of which has the potential to have helped more than 29,319 lives.
“The Spirit of America has evolved out of a simple need to want to do something for 9/11 into a meaningful, heartfelt and truly good thing to do with our community,” Roger Curtis, track president, said.
Those who attempt to donate blood will have the opportunity to ride the MIS tram around the track, through the tunnel to the pits and into MIS’ Home of the Brave exhibit. The exhibit is a 4,000-square-foot multi-media exhibit featuring “as it happened” videos, Presidential letters, magazines, newspapers, and more.
Donors will also be treated to lunch in the Champions Club presented by CP Federal Credit Union overlooking the track and will receive a Spirit of America gift bag, and a commemorative pin and t-shirt.
At the conclusion of the tour, donors get an up-close view of more than 3,000 American flags proudly displayed at Unity Field to honor the victims of 9/11. Each flag represents a victim on the 9/11 attacks, and they are placed in lot 10 at MIS by veterans from local American Legion chapters. Anyone may come to Unity Field, but only blood donors with a scheduled appointment will receive the track and museum tours, gift bag, and lunch.
“Michigan Blood is honored to be part of this incredible event,” said Heidi Seitz, donor relations manager. “This is our third year, and we couldn’t imagine not being part of it all.”
To participate in this extraordinary event and behind the scenes MIS experience, you must have an appointment to donate blood. The blood drive runs from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Appointments are still available and can be made over the phone at 1-866-MIBLOOD (642-5663) or online at: https://donate.miblood.org (Sponsor Code: MIS). Or visit the Spirit of America website, www.SpiritofAmericaBloodDrive.com.
To donate blood, you must be 17 years old (16 with parent/guardian consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and pass a health screening. You also cannot have donated whole blood within the past 56 days. Blood donors should bring photo ID or two pieces of non-photo ID. Additional information about donating blood can be found at www.miblood.org. Information about the event can be found at www.SpiritofAmericaBloodDrive.com.