LEXINGTON, Ky. –Kentucky Blood Center saw an uptick in donors on Wednesday as people started to return to some normal routines following this week’s winter storm, but it wasn’t enough to keep pace with LifeSouth Community Blood Center in Florida, which extended its lead to 644–296 in the 18th annual Big Blue Slam.

Kentucky tallied 172 donors on the third day of the blood battle, which runs through Friday at all KBC locations. KBC got a boost from the start of the University of Kentucky campus drives on Wednesday, but several mobile drives were canceled again because of the inclement conditions, putting KBC behind the eight ball.

It will take a huge turnout over the final two days to extend Kentucky’s Big Blue Slam winning streak to five. All eight KBC donor centers will be open again on Thursday (check hours of operation below), and KBC will be back on UK’s campus with classes in session for the first time this week. Donors can schedule an appointment by visiting bit.ly/BigBlueSlam2026 or by calling 800.775.2522.

“As roads clear and people return to their normal routines, we’re hoping to see a big turnout to end the week,” said Mandy Brajuha, vice president of external relations at KBC. “We obviously want to put some pressure on Florida and try to pull off a comeback, but the blood supply has really taken a hit at a time when we were hoping to add to our inventory. We count on this week to provide a healthy supply for our hospitals.”

Traditionally, Big Blue Slam serves as a mid-winter boost for blood collections. Knowing it’s a matter of when – not if – weather and seasonal illnesses will hinder donations, this week’s winter storm has impacted the very event KBC uses to counter the weather with. Now, with supplies waning, specifically negative blood types, KBC officials are hoping donors rally for the benefit of local patients.

All donors will receive a limited-edition Big Blue Slam T-shirt as a thank you for donating. All blood drives are subject to change because of the winter conditions. Donors are encouraged to check before donating. Donors with appointments will be notified of changes.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo I.D. and meet additional requirements.