This is the coolest thing!

In a season of giving, this one literally comes from the heart. Through the heart, even! And liver, kidneys, a few other things. But I digress. Like that's anything new.

Here in Cleveland there are two huge Catholic boys high schools with a rivalry so legendary that when they meet on the gridiron, the resulting football game is referred to as "Holy War".

Yesterday they had a different competition. Called "The Battle for Blood", St. Edwards (of Lakewood) and St. Ignatius (of Cleveland) challenged each other to be the one to provide the American Red Cross with the most pints of blood.

St. Eds won the challenge.

The Cleveland area Blood Bank won over all, and with them, the entire community.

What an amazingly heart-warming and wonderful giving spirit! With this gift, it's waaaay more than the thought 'counting'. I really hope this spirit of giving life spreads throughout the Cleveland area and beyond!

If you feel so inclined, regardless of the reason or season, the American Red Cross gives this advice:

To learn more blood donation opportunities, visit www.givelife.org or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).