Colts Bleed Blue Blood Drive set for Dec. 8th - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Blood supplies dwindle during the holidays. The WTHR and Colts Bleed Blue Blood Drive aims to make sure there is enough when crisis strikes.

Anything from a car crash to a complicated labor and delivery can lead to a rush on blood. For others, the need stems from an unwelcome diagnosis.

That was the case for Katina Highbaugh, who learned this summer that she had leukemia. Now she getting her blood checked regularly as she prepares for a transplant near Christmas.

During her fight, Katina has relied on blood, platelets and cord blood all donated by strangers.

"I am so blessed that it was there, ready for me when I needed it because with this leukemia," she said. "They are donating something that is giving life and I just...that is just the cycle of life and it's just amazing that they are that selfless to do that, because they are saving lives. They are saving my life and me not knowing who they are, it is really a blessing to me."

Katina Highbaugh is a single mother to two children, and is getting her transplant December 27th. She is grateful for the priceless gifts provided by strangers.

You can help by signing up for the Bleed Blue Blood Drive. It's Saturday, Dec. 8th at Lucas Oil Stadium from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. There will be a health fair and events for kids on the field. Donors will receive limited edition Chuck Pagano football as a thank-you.

Katina Highbaugh and Chuck Pagano were diagnosed around the same time. They both have Dr. Cripe at IU Health Simon Cancer Center as a doctor.

See a full list of events, parking information and directions.

Make an appointment to donate blood.