Aid People with Sickle Cell Disease
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion, but for people with sickle cell disease, the right match is essential. Without it, what is intended to save a life could ultimately result in death or serious complications.
The American Red Cross conducts in-depth testing, typing and matching to provide blood properly matched for transfusion in people living with sickle cell disease. Though there is no readily available cure, frequent blood transfusions help prevent or reduce the symptoms caused by the disease.
Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic disease in the U.S., affecting about 100,000 people - primarily Black or African Americans. Both the disease and the blood drive are very close to my heart. I grew up with an uncle who was so close in age to me that he was like my brother. After years of fighting the disease, he succumbed to it when he was only 42 years old. For many of those suffering from Sickle Cell, like my uncle Harrison, regular blood transfusions are required to replace the damaged blood cells. This creates an ongoing and regular relationship with blood donors, collection facilities and hospitals. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Sickle Cell. However, the Red Cross supports one of the most critical sickle cell treatments of all – blood transfusions. But not just any matching blood type will work. The best blood type match for patients that require frequent transfusions is from donors of the same race or ethnic group. This helps prevent complications from the transfusion.
For people with sickle cell disease, Tymia & Harrison, the Red Cross provides specially tested, typed and matched blood to help alleviate their pain. This vital work improves lives by providing blood used as treatments.
Please join us in helping by supporting our upcoming blood drive focusing on Sickle Cell Disease on 8/12, 10:30 am - 3:30 pm, at the Urban League building located at 5543 Ft Caroline Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32277. We are strongly encouraging donors to make an appointment in order to not have large groups gather while waiting. To make an appointment, go to www.redcrossblood.org and search by sponsor code JAXUL. If you are not able to donate, please recruit your family, friends, and social networks to give on your behalf. Please help give the gift of life!
