About sickle cell disease1 in 365 African-American newborns has sickle cell disease, and 1 in 13 are born with sickle cell trait. Multiple blood transfusions can be the only relief from frequent episodes of pain and complications. Yet patients who receive frequent transfusions can develop antibodies against donated blood, and finding a donor whose antigens match becomes increasingly difficult.
Donors who are sickle trait negative are candidates to give a very special gift to someone battling the pain of sickle cell. Memorial Blood Centers uses an extensive typing process to screen donors and match their blood to patients in need.
People of African American descent are especially needed. Learn how your special commitment can help these courageous fighters and what you can do to help others in our community battling this painful disease.
Watch the Facebook live interview with D-Wayne from KFRX 106.3 and Dr. Jed Gorlin about Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month.
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