Los Angeles, August 30, 2024 — Sickle cell disease is a debilitating condition that is especially common in African and Latino individuals. For optimal treatment, patients require blood that is closely matched to their own, which is most successfully provided by donors of the same ethnic background.
In support of Sickle Cell Awareness Month this September, the American Red Cross is calling on all communities to contribute to a diverse blood supply that is essential for those living with sickle cell disease.
In the U.S., approximately 100,000 individuals are affected by sickle disease, which causes red blood cells to become hard and crescent-shaped, impeding smooth blood flow and the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Regular blood transfusions are essential for managing intense pain and preventing life-threatening crisis. Transfusions increase the number of normal red blood cells that help enhance oxygen delivery and relieve blocked blood vessels.
This fall, commit to making a transformative impact by giving blood. Your donation can assist those with sickle cell disease in managing their health and feeling the support of their community.
You can schedule a donation by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Important Health Information for Donors
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that approximately 1 in 13 Black or African American infants in the U.S. is born with sickle cell trait, a condition many may not even know they have. To offer important health insights, the Red Cross screens all donations from individuals who identify as Black or African American or as multiracial for the sickle cell trait. Awareness of sickle cell trait status is essential, and it is recommended that those with the trait consult with a healthcare provider to fully understand its implications.
Upcoming Sickle Cell Blood Donation Events – October 5 - 30, 2024
10/5/24 -Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Village Academy High School - Cafeteria, 1444 E Holt Ave., Pomona CA 91767
10/8/24- Compton College Building Q - Student Lounge, 1111 E. Artesia Blvd., Compton CA 90221
10/8/24 - Crenshaw Christian Center - YAC, 7901 S. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles CA 90044
10/9/24 - Compton College Building Q - Student Lounge, 1111 E. Artesia Blvd., Compton CA 90221
10/9/24 - From the Heart Church Ministries of LA - Bloodmobile, 1401 W Spring St., Long Beach CA 90810
10/14/24 -Serra High School - Room 405, 14830 Van Ness Ave., Gardena CA 90249
10/15/24 - Kaiser Baldwin Hills - Conference Center, 3782 W Martin Lutheran King Jr Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90008
10/24/24 - Horace Mann UCLA Community School Parking Lot Bloodmobile, 7001 S St Andrews Pl., Los Angeles 90047
10/30/24 - Washington High School - Gymnasium, 10860 S. Denker Ave., Los Angeles CA 90047
10/30/24 - Southwest College - Student Services Building MPR, 1600 W Imperial Hwy., Los Angeles, CA 90047
How to donate blood
To make an appointment, 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. 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 must meet certain height and weight requirements.
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.
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