American Red Cross.
The American Red Cross said a three-year effort to build a more diverse blood supply has helped more patients living with sickle cell disease, as the nation marks Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
Since launching the Sickle Cell Initiative in 2021, the Red Cross reported more than 140,000 first-time African American donors, over 300,000 sickle cell trait screenings, and 320-plus drives on HBCU campuses that collected about 7,300 pints, according to a news release from the American Red Cross. The organization also said it invested $205,000 in scholarships for student “Sickle Cell Fighter” leaders.
The work was underscored by the story of Julius Nelson, of Pottstown, who has required surgeries, hospitalizations and transfusions. He said he was grateful blood was available when needed and urged Black donors to give.
“You have no idea how that is going to change someone else’s life, even if you cannot see it,” Nelson said, adding that doing one’s part “helps make our community stronger and better.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sickle cell disease affects about one in every 365 African American newborns, and many patients require transfusions throughout their lives. Because of closer antigen matches, blood donors who are Black are nearly three times more likely to be a match for sickle cell patients than donors from other groups, the Red Cross said.
Patients pursuing stem-cell or gene-therapy treatment also rely on well-matched blood and platelet donations to avoid complications.
This fall, the Red Cross is running its “Joined by Blood” activation, partnering with the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, 100 Black Men of America, The Links, Incorporated, National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations, HBCUs, faith groups and corporate partners to host more than 750 drives nationwide.
“When our communities give together, we heal together,” said Dr. Yvette Miller, executive medical officer for Red Cross Blood Services.
Those who donate between Aug. 29 – Sept. 21 receive a Red Cross x PEANUTS mystery bag (while supplies last); donors who give Sept. 22 – Oct. 19 receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card by email; and donors who give Oct. 20 – Nov. 16 receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice.
To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood, use the Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
