Sul Ross State University’s Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC), in collaboration with Earl Young’s Team and the Office of Civic Engagement & Student Assistance, will host Swab-a-Palooza: A Donor Registration Drive to Fight Blood Cancer on Tuesday, April 28, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the University Center Mall. The event is open to the public.

Swab-a-Palooza is a donor registration event that allows individuals to join the national registry of potential bone marrow and stem cell donors. Registration takes only a few minutes and requires a simple cheek swab, offering participants a quick and meaningful opportunity to potentially save a life. “Through this event, we’re not just coming together, we are showing up for people we may never meet” said Samantha Bustos, SAAC member and Sul Ross softball player.  “A simple swab can become some’s second chance at life.”

Eligibility to register as a potential donor includes being between the ages of 18 and 55 and being in good general health. Additional screening information will be available on-site for participants who wish to learn more about the registration process.

The event is designed to increase awareness and participation in the national donor registry for individuals affected by blood cancers and blood disorders. Through community engagement and campus involvement, SAAC hopes to encourage more people to take part in this life-saving initiative. In addition to donor registration, Maverick Bank will be on-site preparing sausage wraps for participants during the event.

“This is an opportunity for students at our university and community members to change someone’s life. This is much bigger than just a sport or a class. If one person can save one life then it’s all worth it,” said Clayton Garcia, associate athletic director for compliance and advisor for SAAC.

By hosting the SWAB Drive, Sul Ross State continues its commitment to civic engagement, student leadership and community service. The university encourages all eligible students, faculty, staff and community members to attend and participate.

Earl Young’s Team Earl Young’s Team is dedicated to supporting individuals with blood cancer and blood disorders by promoting donor registration and helping connect patients with life-saving matches.

For more information, contact katy.williams@sulross.edu or clayton.garcia@sulross.edu.