Athletics

Husker Healers and The Blood Drive

N Our Voice by Caitlin Cairns

Husker Healers and The Blood DriveScott Bruhn

The concept of Husker Healers was born from a conversation I had with one of my closest friends as she wrapped up her undergraduate studies last year.

During a dinner discussion, she recounted the invaluable assistance she received from older student-athletes.

They provided her with crucial advice on studying for entrance exams, crafting personal statements, and requesting letters of recommendation.

As someone who pursues a profession in the healthcare industry, I felt like the student-athletes here at Nebraska could benefit from something similar.

Our life skills department does an excellent job preparing us athletes for life after college, but I felt like a dedicated resource for student-athletes who have professional aspirations in the healthcare industry could be valuable.

And I wanted to launch that resource.

That’s how Husker Healers came to fruition.

With the support of my friend and four other student-athletes, I founded Husker Healers last year.

It is a student-led organization that shares tips, tricks, and guidance about a variety of healthcare related post-graduate topics with other student-athletes such as volunteer opportunities or interview prep.

My career aspirations

My aspiration to be a dentist comes from my parents. They are both dentists, and I grew up watching them help others.

I’ve always wanted to follow in their footsteps and do the same.

I’m proud of the work they do and the impact they make on so many people’s lives.

You know, growing up in a family of dentists, it’s not just dinner talk.

It’s a lifestyle.

I’ve always been in awe of how much of an impact they make on the lives of others.

I know that’s what I want to do, too.

My parents have been my role models my entire life.

I’ve been blessed to have two people show me the way.

They instilled in me the importance of putting others first and using my gifts and strengths to make the world a better place.

The Importance of Serving Others

I grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and I was raised in a Catholic household.

My parents always made it a priority for me to serve others, and they led by example.

I attended a Catholic high school, where I participated in numerous service projects.

I’ve volunteered at food banks, helped with various student organizations, and spent time at retirement homes.

I’ve always had a heart for service and a deep desire to help others.

In fact, one of the main reasons I decided to attend Nebraska was because of their strong emphasis on community service and giving back.

So, when I was approached about the idea to host the blood drive, I didn’t think twice about it.

It was another way to use my platform as a student-athlete to help others.

The History of the Blood Drive

The upcoming drive on March 28th continues the tradition initiated by Sam Griesel last year.

Sam, a former basketball player here, was the driving force behind the inaugural Husker Athletics Blood Drive.

Having gone through a traumatic experience resulting in the loss of half his blood, Sam's life was saved by blood infusions.

He felt a deep desire to give back by organizing a blood drive with the athletic department.

However, Sam graduated and is now playing basketball overseas in Germany.

So, the athletic department sought out a group of student-athletes to spearhead this year's blood drive, and Husker Healers proved to be an ideal fit.

This Year's Blood Drive

It's an honor to uphold this tradition and carry it forward this year.

Husker student-athletes will assist in registering participants, directing them, and expressing gratitude to blood donors.

The overwhelming support from the entire state of Nebraska for our university and athletic department inspires me to give back in any capacity possible.

I'm immensely proud of my fellow student-athletes for their commitment to community service, underscoring the impact we can collectively achieve.

This blood drive exemplifies teamwork, and I'm grateful for the encouragement and backing from numerous individuals.

I hope Husker Healers' impact on student-athletes and the community at large serves as inspiration for others to collaborate and support each other, too.

I’m proud and excited to continue Sam's tradition of community service, and I eagerly anticipate the impact we can make on March 28th and beyond.

If possible, please join us at the West Stadium Club of Memorial Stadium between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on March 28th. Your support would be greatly appreciated, and we look forward to seeing you there!