Oct. 14, 2004

Fairfax, Va.--George Mason participated in the third annual Colonial Athletic Association Blood Challenge on Oct. 13, which was a resounding success as the Patriots had 148 individuals attempt to donate to mark the best turn-out for Mason in the three-year history.

The CAA Blood Challenge was developed by the league presidents as a fun way to emphasize the critical importance of donating blood, as one pint of whole blood can help one to three patients. In addition, someone in the United States receives a blood transfusion every 3.5 seconds.

Each CAA institution will designate one day during the months of September, October or November to conduct a campus-wide blood drive. With the assistance of local blood service centers, a count will be kept of all people who show up to donate blood on that day. Based on those numbers, the CAA will determine a winner and present a framed award to that institution.

This event would not have been as successful if it was not for the individuals who volunteered their time to assist at the drive, as well as everyone who attempted to donate.