Celebrating Lifesaving Contributions During Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Innovative Initiatives to Boost Blood Donations
September marks Sickle Cell Awareness Month, a time when we reflect on the importance of blood donations, especially from Black Americans. The American Red Cross is leading the charge, celebrating a significant resurgence in blood donations through its innovative Sickle Cell Initiative, launched in 2021. This initiative has not only encouraged over 140,000 first-time African American donors but has also addressed the critical blood needs of more than 100,000 Americans living with sickle cell disease.
A Personal Story of Resilience
At the heart of this movement is the inspiring story of Kelly Bernard-Igwe, a true sickle cell warrior. Having suffered a stroke at just four years old due to complications related to her condition, Kelly has undergone over 280 blood transfusions in her lifetime. Today, she thrives as a wife and nurse, recently earning her Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice degree. Kelly shares her appreciation for blood donations: “I wouldn’t be alive without transfusions. Once I receive the blood, I feel re-energized and rejuvenated. I call it ‘getting my refill.'”
Transformative Achievements of the Sickle Cell Initiative
Since its inception, the Sickle Cell Initiative has marked several transformative milestones, each highlighting the community’s collaborative spirit.
- Inspiring Donations: Over 140,000 first-time African American donors have stepped forward to give blood, significantly increasing the blood supply for those in need.
- Increasing Awareness: The initiative has provided more than 300,000 sickle cell trait screenings for those self-identifying as African American, Black, or multiracial, thereby raising critical awareness about the disease.
- Empowering Future Leaders: With an investment of $205,000, the initiative has funded scholarships for 41 outstanding students dedicated to improving the lives of sickle cell patients through the Red Cross Sickle Cell Fighter High School Scholarship Program.
- Building Community Capacity: The program has successfully collected over 7,300 pints of blood through more than 320 drives on Historically Black College and University (HBCU) campuses, creating impactful collaborations across communities.
Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
According to the CDC, sickle cell disease is a severe hereditary condition impacting one in every 365 African American newborns, making it the most prevalent inherited blood disorder in the United States. Many patients with this condition rely on frequent blood transfusions for survival. Notably, Black donors are nearly three times more likely to provide compatible blood for sickle cell patients.
The ongoing efforts to increase blood donations from African Americans are paramount, especially as many patients undergo stem cell or gene therapy treatments that require closely matched blood to avoid complications.
Joined by Blood: A Seasonal Call to Action
The Red Cross’s “Joined by Blood” initiative runs from September through October, featuring over 750 blood drives nationwide. This effort involves partnerships with various organizations, including the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Delta Air Lines, and member organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, among others.
Dr. Yvette Miller, executive medical officer at Red Cross Blood Services, emphasizes the value of community action: “Together, we have the power to help save lives and strengthen community health. When our communities give together, we heal together.”
The Critical Role of Blood Donations
In urgent situations, such as when someone with sickle cell disease arrives at an emergency room in severe pain—approximately every two and a half minutes—the availability of blood transfusions can be life-saving. As Dr. Bernard-Igwe aptly puts it, “Many of us rely on blood donations to live. Since sickle cell does affect mostly African Americans, it is of utmost importance to obtain more Black donors.”
Taking Action: How to Donate
The “Joined by Blood” initiative not only fosters a sense of community among donors but also assures patients with sickle cell disease that they are supported. For those looking to contribute, there are multiple ways to schedule a blood donation appointment:
- Visit RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood.
- Use the Blood Donor App.
- Call 1-800-RED CROSS.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing disaster relief, supplying 40% of the nation’s blood, teaching lifesaving skills, and supporting military families. The organization relies on the generosity of the public and volunteers to fulfill its essential mission. For more details, visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org.
By supporting these initiatives, we can contribute to not just individual lives, but the collective health of our communities.