This September, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar from Minnesota joined Memorial Blood Centers and New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe) in recognizing Sickle Cell Awareness Month by filming a special public service announcement (PSA).

Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States, affecting more than 100,000 people nationwide, including patients here in Minnesota. Many of those living with sickle cell require regular blood transfusions as part of their treatment, making a consistent and diverse blood supply essential.

In her message, Senator Klobuchar thanks donors for their generosity and emphasizes the importance of supporting patients living with sickle cell disease. Senator Klobuchar—who co-chairs the bipartisan Rare Disease Congressional Caucus—also highlights the value of investing in research to help people living with sickle cell and other rare diseases.

NYBCe is a national leader in sickle cell research and treatment innovation, working on improved transfusion therapies, new approaches to curative treatments, and better outcomes for patients. This dual mission, combining research and lifesaving blood collections, allows us to serve patients today while working toward tomorrow’s cures.

At Memorial Blood Centers, we are proud to join Senator Klobuchar in shining a light on the urgent need for blood donations and the patients whose lives depend on them.

Watch the PSA below and consider making an appointment to donate blood in honor of Sickle Cell Awareness Month.