A system for providing a continuous flow of blood between two locations in a cardiovascular system of a patient is provided. The system includes a blood conduit having a proximal portion configured to be attached to an artery. The system also includes a distal portion configured to be inserted into a blood vessel at an insertion site and to be advanced there through to a location spaced apart from the insertion site. Moreover, the system includes a reinforcement member positioned at least partially about the blood conduit in at least one of the distal portion, the proximal portion, or a combination thereof.